Luteinising Hormone

In women, there are two types of ovarian failure, primary and secondary. This test helps to analyze LH and FSH levels which can in turn help to differentiate between the two types of ovarian failure. Primary ovarian failure is when the problem is within the ovaries or there is a lack of ovarian development. However, secondary ovarian failure occurs due to disorders of either the pituitary gland or the hypothalamus. Primary ovarian failure: In this, the levels of LH and FSH rise. The following can be some causes of primary ovarian failure: · Developmental defects: Failure to develop ovaries (ovarian agenesis) · Chromosomal abnormality: Turner syndrome · Defect in steroid production by the ovaries such as 17 alpha-hydroxylase deficiency · Premature ovarian failure due to exposure to radiation, chemotherapy, and autoimmune disease · Chronic failure to ovulate (anovulation) due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), adrenal disease, thyroid disease, and ovarian tumor · Menopause: In this, a woman's ovaries cease to function; thus, it results in increased levels of LH. Secondary ovarian failure: In this, low levels of LH and FSH are observed which indicates a problem with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus. Here, LH response to GnRH can help differentiate between secondary dysfunction and tertiary disorder (a problem involving the hypothalamus). Following baseline level of LH measurement, a dose of GnRH is given by injection. A subsequent increase in LH level shows that the pituitary gland responded to the GnRH and indicates a disorder involving the hypothalamus. However, a reduced level of LH shows that the pituitary gland did not respond to the GnRH and suggests a disease involving the pituitary gland.

Primary testicular failure: High levels of LH may indicate primary testicular failure. The following can be the causes: · Developmental defects: Failure to develop gonads (gonadal agenesis) · Chromosomal abnormality such as Klinefelter syndrome · Testicular failure: Viral infection (mumps), Trauma, Exposure to radiation, Chemotherapy, and Autoimmune disease · Germ cell tumor · Testicular injury Secondary failure: Low levels of LH and FSH can be seen in case of secondary failure of the testicles. This may indicate a problem with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus.