Laboratory Medicine Program

Luteinizing hormone, non-pregnant
(LH, non-pegnant)

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

Method: Chemiluminometric technology

Component Tests Used: n/a

Reference Ranges Used:
Male: 0.6 – 12.1; Female:Follicular Phase : 1.8 – 11.8 ; Mid-Cycle Peak : 7.6 – 89.1; Luteal Phase: 0.6 – 14.0; Postmenopausal (without HRT) : 5.2 – 62.0 IU/L

Specimen Type: serum
Volume: 3 mL (minimum: 1 .0 mL)

Shipping: 4C

Special Instructions: Triple bolus - mark collection times on tubes. Centrifuge and aliquot sample. Refrigerate at 2-8C if assay is not completed within 8 hours.

Testing Schedule(s): Monday to Friday.

Turnaround Time: 1 day

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For more information, call 416.340.5227 or 1.866.865.5227

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