Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) (1130)

SHBG is a glycoprotein that binds to sex hormones, specifically testosterone and estradiol.

Methodology

Immunoassay – Sandwich principle

• Elevated SHBG levels can be seen:1-4
  • In elderly men
  • In patients with hyperthyroidism and cirrhosis of the liver
  • When oral contraceptives or antiepileptic drugs are taken
• Markedly higher SHBG levels are seen in pregnant women due to their increased estrogen
  production1-4
• Decreased SHBG concentrations are often seen with:1-4
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
  • Obesity
  • Elevated androgen levels
  • 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Goodman N, Cobin RH. Reproductive disorders. In: Camacho PM, Gharib H, Sizemore GW, eds. Evidence-Based Endocrinology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. 2012:190-228