Lactate dehydrogenase estimation in follicular fluid: Correlation with patient age, follicle size and super ovulation in ART cycles

Objective: To quantify the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level in human follicular fluids, and to define its relationship with follicle size, patient age, serum estradiol (E₂) level, and the amount of gonadotropins administered during superovulation in ART cycles. Study design: In this prospective study, 21 women undergoing ART treatment were selected. Follicular fluid from the largest follicle of both ovaries was collected from each patient on the day of oocyte aspiration and analyzed for LDH. Serum oestradiol was estimated on the day of hCG administration. Relationship between LDH level and (1) patient age, (2) follicle size, (3) follicle stimulating hormone administered during superovulation period and (4) serum oestradiol was studied. Result(s): LDH activity increased with chronological age of the patient. As follicular size (diameter) increased, increase in the LDH concentration in follicular fluid was observed. Serum estradiol level did not show any relationship with LDH activity. Similarly, administration of various doses of follicle stimulating hormone during superovulation did not show any correlation with LDH level. Conclusion(s): Follicular fluid LDH level has shown association with patient age and the follicle size, however, no significant association was found with other parameters studied.