Predictive Role of Lactate Dehydrogenase Enzyme in Transient Tachypnea of The Newborn

Background: Neonatal transient tachypnea is a prevalent clinical concern, often necessitating prompt evaluation and management to prevent adverse outcomes. Identifying reliable biomarkers that can predict disease severity and guide therapeutic decisions is crucial. This study aimed to elaborate the role of serum lactate dehydrogenase enzyme (LDH) as a prognostic marker. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted on 36 neonates suffered from transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Zagazig University Children’s Hospital. Clinical data including need for respiratory support, occurrence of complications, and length of hospital stay were recorded. Serum LDH levels were measured at admission. Statistical analysis included ROC curve analysis to determine LDH cutoff values predictive of mortality and mechanical ventilation (MV) requirement. Results: Serum LDH level ranged from 374 to 3798 U/L with median 919.5 U/L. Elevated serum LDH was significantly associated with MV (p=0.001), longer hospitalization (p<0.001), and mortality (p<0.001). An LDH cutoff ≥1075 U/L predicted mortality with AUC 0.933. Conclusion: Serum LDH was a promising early predictor for determining respiratory support needs and adverse outcomes in neonates with TTN