Abstract: A method of determining hypoxia in fetal scalp blood sampled during labor comprises the determination of total lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in plasma obtained from the sample. The method can comprise the additional determination of K, Mg, Ca, AST, ALT, lactate in the plasma and/or blood. Increased values of one or more of LDH, Mg, Ca, AST, ALT, lactate are indicative of hypoxia in the fetus. Also disclosed is the use of a plasma separation apparatus in the method.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a testing system for assessing hypoxia induced cellular damage in a mammal including human, comprising a disposable device having a sample inlet and a collection chamber separated by a separation device wherein the collection chamber is connected to at least two, a first and a second, visible detection compartments, whereof at least one is arranged with chemical means for direct visual detection, said first detection compartment being arranged to determine whether level of hemoglobin (Hb) in a sample of body fluid taken from said mammal exceeds a predetermined threshold value, and said second detection compartment being arranged to evaluate level of total amount of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in said sample.