Laktatspiegel

Laktatspiegel refers to the concentration of lactate in the blood. Lactate is a byproduct of anaerobic metabolism, a process that occurs when the body needs energy but oxygen supply is insufficient. During intense physical activity, muscles break down glucose for energy, producing lactate as a waste product. Normally, lactate is cleared from the blood by the liver and heart, which can convert it back to glucose or use it for energy.

Elevated laktatspiegel can indicate various conditions, most commonly strenuous exercise. However, significantly high levels can signal more serious issues. These include conditions that impair oxygen delivery to tissues, such as shock, sepsis, heart failure, or severe anemia. Certain medications and toxins can also lead to increased lactate levels.

Measuring laktatspiegel is a common practice in clinical settings to assess tissue oxygenation and metabolic status. It is particularly useful in emergency medicine and intensive care to monitor patients at risk of or exhibiting signs of compromised circulation or cellular metabolism. Interpretation of laktatspiegel requires consideration of the patient's overall clinical picture and other laboratory findings.