Laboratory Medicine Program

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)
(FSH)

Clinical Decription:
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a glycoprotein with two subunits. The alpha subunit is similar to those of luteininzing hormone (LH), human chronic gonadotropin (hCG), and thyroid ?stimulating hormone (TSH). The beta subunit is different form those of the other glycoprotein hormones and confers its biochemical specificity. FSH is secreted by the anterior pituitary in response to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secreted by the hypothalamus. In both males and females, FSH secretion is regulated by a balance of positive and negative feedback mechanisms involving the hypothalamic pituitary axis, the reproductive organs and the pituitary as sex steroid hormones. FSH and LH play a critical role in maintaining the normal function of the male and female reproductive systems. Abnormal FSH levels with corresponding increased or decreased levels of LH, estrogens and progesterone and testosterone are associated with a number of pathological conditions. Increased FSH levels are associated with menopause and primary hypogonadism in males. Decreased FSH levels are associated with primary ovarian hyperfunction in females and primary hypergonadism in males, Normal or decreased FSH levels are associated with polycystic ovary in females.

Method: Automated/Manual

Component Tests Used: n/a

Reference Ranges Used:
Male: 1.0 – 12.0 IU/L ; Female:Follicular phase: 3.0 – 8.1 IU/L ; Mid-Cycle Peak: 2.6 – 16.7 IU/L ; Luteal Phase: 1.4 – 5.5 IU/L ; Postmenopausal: 26.7 – 133.4 IU/L

Specimen Type: serum
Volume: 3 mL (minimum: 1 mL)

Shipping: room temperature or 4C

Special Instructions: Triple bolus - mark collection times on tubes. Centrifuge and aliquot sample.

Testing Schedule(s): Monday through Friday.

Turnaround Time: 1 day

For more information, call 416.340.5227 or 1.866.865.5227