Normal Reference Ranges
Adult
Male: 10 - 80 | Female: 20 - 130 nmol/L
Pediatric
Varies by age nmol/L
Clinical Significance
Glycoprotein that binds sex steroids (testosterone, estradiol). Low SHBG increases free (active) testosterone fractions, playing a major role in PCOS pathogenesis.
Causes of High
- Hyperthyroidism
- Pregnancy
- Estrogen therapy
- Liver cirrhosis
- Anorexia nervosa
Causes of Low
- Hypothyroidism
- Obesity / insulin resistance
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Androgen therapy / anabolic steroid use