Normal Reference Ranges
Adult
Male: 1.2-8.6 | Female: Varies (Spikes at ovulation) mIU/mL
Pediatric
Varies by age/Tanner stage mIU/mL
Clinical Significance
Triggers ovulation and corpus luteum development in females, and stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone in males.
Causes of High
- Primary gonadal failure
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS - high LH/FSH ratio)
Causes of Low
- Pituitary failure
- Severe stress/malnutrition (Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea)