Synonyms: Luteinising hormone, luteotrophin, luteotrophic hormone
Related tests: FSH, Progesterone, oestradiol, Testosterone
Clinical significance
Luteinising hormone is a hormone of the anterior pituitary gland whose production is regulated by the hypothalamus through FSH-LH releasing factor (GnRH). LH is a glycoprotein made up of two chains: one, the α chain, is shared with TSH and FSH and activates adenylate cyclase, while the other, the β chain, is specific for the receptors of the target organ. In women, LH stimulates ovulation, the formation of the corpus luteum and the production of progesterone and oestrogens; in men it stimulates the production of testosterone.
Clinical indications
Amenorrhoea, hypogonadism (in men), identifying the time of ovulation
Sample type
The patient must have a blood sample taken.
Preparation
You must fast for at least 8 hours; a small amount of water is allowed.