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Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Serum/Plasma

Description

FSH is a member of the glycoprotein hormone family that has a central and essential role in reproduction. FSH determination is fundamental to elucidating reproductive physiology, regulating fertility, and diagnosing and treating disorders of reproduction. FSH is not a single entity but is a heterogeneous population of different forms, which changes under different physiological and pathological situations.

Indications

FSH measurement is widely employed in the diagnosis of disorders of reproduction and development. The primary use of FSH measurements is for assessment of gonadal function. Through classical endocrine feedback pathways, an elevated level of FSH indicates reduced gonadal function or gonadal failure, whereas a normal serum concentration of FSH suggests normal gonadal function. A low serum FSH may indicate a problem at the level of the hypothalamus or pituitary. A measurement of serum FSH, with measurement of LH and either estradiol or testosterone, may be helpful in children with suspected premature or delayed puberty. A baseline measurement of serum FSH concentration, usually on day 3 of the menstrual cycle, is a fairly good predictor of ovarian reserve in women of reproductive years. A fluctuating baseline FSH level is indicative of compromised ovarian function. Measurement of FSH is also helpful in determining the presence of common disorders of reproduction such as polycystic ovary syndrome, when classically the serum LH concentration is elevated, while FSH is usually normal. FSH measurement is indicated in men with azoospermia or severe oligospermia to assess gonadal failure.

Sample Type, Quantity & Conditions

1 ml Serum 1 ml Li, Na, NH4+-Heparin or K3-EDTA Plasma Stability: 14 Days at 2-8 °C 6 Months at -20 °C

Special Precautions

State date of LMP. Freeze only once.

Normal Range

Follicular Phase: 3.5 - 12.5 mIU/mL Ovulation Phase: 4.7 - 21.5 mIU/mL Luteal Phase: 1.7 - 7.7 mIU/mL Postmenopause: 25.8 - 134.8 mIU/mL Male: 1.5 - 12.4 mIU/mL

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