Creatine Kinase and Lactate Dehydrogenase Enzymes Response to Lactate Tolerance Exercise Test

Abstract

PURPOSE This study aimed to assess alterations in serum creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels after performing a lactate tolerance exercise test (LTET) in elite male swimmers. METHODS Fourteen male adolescent swimmers participated in this study. All subjects performed LTET (8×100-meter swimming) with a 1-minute recovery interval between eight trainings. Plasma CK and LDH (markers of muscle damage) levels were measured 30 minute before and 24 hours after the test. A paired t-test was used for statistical analysis of data. RESULTS Plasma CK and LDH levels increased immediately after LTET as compared to the values 30 minutes prior to exercise (188.91±34.04 vs. 148.83±29.63 mg/dL, p=.029; 318.17±53.89 vs. 272.08±52.93 mg/dL, p=.010, respectively). Both CK and LDH levels displayed a decreasing trend 24 hours post-LTET; however, there was no significant difference immediately after the test. CONCLUSIONS Plasma CK and LDH levels increased following LTET, which is representative of muscle damage.

Keywords

• lactate dehydrogenase enzymes
• muscle damage
• swimmer
• exercise