Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Also known as: Interstitial Cell-stimulating Hormone

Clinical Use

Use

The primary clinical use of LH measurement is in evaluating the normalcy of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Measurement of serum gonadotropin levels will allow for distinguishing between primary gonadal failure and deficient gonadal stimulation. LH measurement may also be of clinical importance because growth hormone and LH are frequently the first hormones to be affected by pituitary disease. The serum analysis of LH has also been found to be very useful in the diagnosis and treatment of infertility in women.

Special Instructions

Not provided.

Limitations

Secretion of both LH and FSH is pulsatile due to the intermittent release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). In females, FSH and LH levels vary over the menstrual cycle, peaking at ovulation. Interpretation of a single determination may be difficult. It is suggested to obtain samples at 15-30 minute intervals and pool equal serum volumes to minimize pulsatile secretion effects. Erroneous findings may occur due to monoclonal mouse antibodies or interference from high antibody titers against streptavidin and ruthenium. Additives minimize these effects.

Test Details