Alpha Subunit
Also known as: Gonadotropin Alpha Subunit, Glycoprotein Alpha Subunit, Alpha Subunit of Pituitary, Pituitary Glycoprotein Hormone Alpha Subunit, Alpha Subunit of the Gonadotropin
Use
This test measures the alpha subunit that is common to luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). These hormones share identical alpha subunits but differ in their beta subunits which confer biological specificity. It is used to detect and quantify the alpha subunit, which may aid in evaluating endocrine-related conditions where nonspecific alpha subunit elevation is relevant.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
This assay was developed internally by Quest Diagnostics and has not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It has been analytically validated under CLIA regulations and is utilized for clinical purposes. Because results reflect total alpha subunit shared by multiple hormones, interpretation should consider potential cross-reactivity and non‑specific elevation, and clinical context is essential.
Methodology
Immunoassay (ECLIA)
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
3-7 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis • Plasma • Grossly icteric
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 10 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |