FSH is one of the gonadotropins of the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates the growth and maturity of graafian follicles in the ovary and spermatogenesis in the testes.
Methodology
Immunoassay – Sandwich principle
- FSH is used to assess for dysfunctions within the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal system1-4
- FSH in conjunction with LH is used for the following indications:1-4
- Menopausal syndrome
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
- Testosterone deficiency
- Amenorrhea (causes)
- Congenital diseases with chromosomal aberrations
- High doses of biotin (> 5 mg/day) may interfere with assay results. Patient assumed to be refraining from biotin supplementation for at least 3 days prior to blood draw.
References:
- Bhasin S, Cunningham GR, Hayes FJ, et al. Testosterone therapy in men with androgen deficiency syndromes: Endocrine Society clinical practice guidelines. J Clin Endorcinol Metab. 2010;95(6):2536-2559.
- Santen RJ, Allred DC, Ardoin SP, et al. Postmenopausal hormone therapy: an Endocrine Society scientific statement. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2010;95(7 Suppl 1):s1-s66.
- Kopper NW, Gudeman J, Thompson DJ. Transdermal hormone therapy in postmenopausal women: a review of the metabolic eff ects and drug delivery technologies. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2008;2:193-202.
- Goodman N, Cobin RH. Reproductive disorders. In: Camacho PM, Gharib H, Sizemore GW, eds. Evidence-Based Endocrinology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. 2012:190-22
