Follicle stimulating hormone
Background:
Investigation of infertility and pituitary function in males and females, and menstrual irregularity in females; investigation of pubertal disorders in children.
Age/gender specific reference ranges are supplied.
In females, elevated FSH (> 30 IU/L) in conjunction with amenorrhea is consistent with menopause/ovarian failure.
Low or suppressed FSH is seen in pituitary disease, pregnancy, oral contraceptives, strenous exercise and anorexia.
In males with low serum testosterone, LH and FSH can help distinguish hypergonadotrophic from hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism.
Reference ranges:
| Age range | Reference range (IU/L) | |
|---|---|---|
| < 10 years | 0 - 3 | |
| < 55 years | Females |
Follicular: 2.5 - 10.2 Midcycle: 3.4 - 33.4 Luteal: 1.5 - 9.1 |
| > 55 years | Females | 23.0 - 116.3 |
| Males | 1.4 - 18.1 | |
Results outside the reference range do not necessarily indicate disease. Similarly, results within the reference range do not preclude abnormality. Please contact the Duty Biochemist for discussion of individual patient results.
Other Comments:
For more information, please see the following: FSH - Lab Tests Online
See also: LH, Oestradiol, Testosterone, Cortisol
Department: Biochemistry
Requirement:
- Gel/clotted (yellow/red top)
Add-on requests are accepted up to 48 hours post sampling
Turnaround Time:
Up to 24 hours