Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
CPT Code(s):
83002
Turnaround Time:
4 hours
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen:
Serum
Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL
Transport Container:
Serum Separator Tube (SST) or Red Top Tube
Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature
Collection Instructions:
Allow blood to clot completely prior to centrifugation. Separate serum from cells within 45 minutes of collection.
Rejection Criteria:
Plasma specimen; gross hemolysis; lipemia; improper labeling
Stability Criteria
Room Temperature:
5 days
Refrigerated:
14 days
Frozen:
183 days
Clinical Significance
The Luteinizing Hormone (LH) test holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in assessing the levels of LH in a patient's blood. LH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, and its levels fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle in women and play a crucial role in reproductive health.
The specific clinical significance and diagnostic use of LH include:
1. Evaluation of Ovulation: LH levels surge just before ovulation, triggering the release of an egg from the ovary. Monitoring LH levels helps identify the optimal time for fertility and aids in the evaluation of ovulatory function in women. LH is commonly used in fertility assessments and treatment, such as timing intercourse or assisting with assisted reproductive techniques.
2. Diagnosis of Menopause: LH levels increase significantly during menopause, reflecting the decline in ovarian function. Measuring LH levels can assist in diagnosing menopause and evaluating a woman's reproductive status.
3. Assessment of Puberty: LH levels rise during puberty, playing a role in the development of secondary sexual characteristics and the onset of menstruation in girls. LH can help evaluate the onset and progression of puberty in adolescents.
4. Evaluation of Hormonal Imbalances: Abnormal LH levels may indicate hormonal imbalances, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hypothalamic dysfunction. LH, along with other hormone assessments, helps diagnose and monitor these conditions.
5. Monitoring Hormone Replacement Therapy: In women undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT), LH can help assess the effectiveness and adequacy of treatment. Monitoring LH levels can ensure appropriate hormone dosage and evaluate the suppression of LH production in certain therapeutic regimens.
Interpretation of LH results involves considering the patient's clinical context, menstrual cycle phase (in women), age, and other hormonal parameters. It is important to interpret LH levels in conjunction with other hormone tests, such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrogen, and progesterone.
In summary, LH is specifically used for assessing ovulation, diagnosing menopause, evaluating puberty, identifying hormonal imbalances, and monitoring hormone replacement therapy. It provides valuable information about reproductive function and hormonal status, aiding healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing various reproductive and endocrine disorders. Close collaboration between healthcare providers and patients is crucial to interpret the test results accurately and implement appropriate treatment plans.