Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry
Test Name:
LUTEINIZING HORMONE - (P)
Test Code: LH
Clinical Information:
FSH and LH are pituitary gonadotropins that regulate and stimulate the growth and function of the gonads (ovaries and testes). In females, FSH and LH stimulate ovarian follicle growth and maturation, estrogen secretion and ovulation. A mid cycle LH surge triggers ovulation releasing the egg and initiating the conversion of the residual follicle into a corpus luteum that produces progesterone to prepare the endometrium for possible implantation. In males, LH acts on testicular interstitial Leydig cells to cause synthesis of testosterone. FSH and LH testing are used in the evaluation and management of hypogonadism, menstrual irregularities, infertility investigation and diagnosis of pituitary disorders.

Patient Preparation Instructions: Multivitamins (45–125 µg biotin) or biotin-only supplements up to 1 mg per day do not interfere with this test. Samples should not be taken from patients receiving therapy with high biotin doses (i.e. >5 mg/day) until at least 8 hours after the last dose.
Collection Devices:
Specimen Required:


Plasma: 2.0 mL

Stability 14 days refrigerated, 6 months frozen.
Referral:
Serum: 2.0 mL

Samples must be transferred to an aliquot tube and stored frozen if analysis will not be complete within 48 hours (#110-10-05 Serum / Plasma Separation Procedure & Transport)
Requisition:
Reference Values:
Female:                     IU/L               Male:                      IU/L     
0 - 12 mo: 1-8 0 - 12 mo: 2-16
Prepubertal: < 4 13 mo - 12 y: 1-3
Follicular: 2-12 ≥ 13 y: 2-18
Mid-cycle: 20-60    
Luteal: 1-12    
Post-menopausal: > 15    
Availability:
Daily
See Also:
More Information: