FSH and LH

FSH and LH are secreted by the anterior pituitary gland in response to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GNRH) from the hypothalamus. In both men and women, the secretion of FSH and LH is controlled by a combination of positive and negative feedback mechanisms involving the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, reproductive organs, and pituitary and sex steroid hormones. These hormones are essential for the proper functioning of the male and female reproductive systems.

Abnormal FSH levels, along with corresponding changes in LH, estrogens, progesterone, and testosterone, are linked to various medical conditions. Elevated FSH levels are associated with menopause and primary ovarian hypofunction in women and primary hypogonadism in men. Reduced FSH levels are linked to primary ovarian hyperfunction in women and primary hypergonadism in men. Normal or decreased FSH levels are associated with polycystic ovary syndrome in women.

In men, LH is also known as interstitial cell-stimulating hormone (ICSH). Abnormal LH levels, along with changes in FSH, estrogens, progesterone, and testosterone, are linked to various medical conditions. Elevated LH levels are associated with menopause, primary ovarian hypofunction, and polycystic ovary syndrome in women, and primary hypogonadism in men. Decreased LH levels are linked to primary ovarian hyperfunction in women and primary hypergonadism in men.

Preferred Specimen(s):

2 mL serum

Minimum:

Volume 1 mL

Methodology:

Immunoassay (IA)