Inhibin A, Tumor Marker, Serum
Use
This test aids in the diagnosis of patients with granulosa cell tumors of the ovary when used in combination with inhibin B. It is also used for monitoring patients with granulosa cell tumors and epithelial mucinous-type tumors of the ovary known to secrete inhibin A. Elevations of inhibin A are detected in approximately 70% of granulosa cell tumors and around 20% of epithelial mucinous ovarian tumors, serving as an important tool in the management and diagnosis of these conditions.
Special Instructions
For initial evaluation of suspected granulosa cell tumors, order INHAB / Inhibin A and B, Tumor Marker, Serum. Monitoring may require individual tests for inhibin A (INHA) and inhibin B (INHB) if elevations are detected.
Limitations
Inhibin values fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, necessitating caution in interpretation especially in premenopausal women. Normal inhibin A levels do not exclude the presence of mucinous or granulosa ovarian cell tumors; thus, testing for inhibin B might be informative. Tumor markers are not specific for malignancy, and values may vary with different methodologies. In rare cases, the presence of human anti-mouse antibodies may cause interference, necessitating caution in result interpretation.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Immunoenzymatic Assay)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 23883-2
- 23883-2
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.6 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial. Preferred collection container is serum gel; red top is acceptable.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |