GLDH is a largely liver‐specific enzyme found exclusively in the mitochondria and located predominantly within the liver cell acinus. GLDH activity in other organs such as the kidneys, pancreas, heart, brain and intestines is negligible. Determination of GLDH activity is performed to diagnose liver disorders, and in particular to assess the severity of damage to individual cells. Necrotizing liver damage such as acute hepatic dystrophy, necrotizing hepatitis, multiple liver metastases and obstructive jaundice are accompanied by elevated GLDH activities in serum.