Alpha Subunit
Test Code
8658
83520
Clinical Significance
Alpha Subunit - This assay is useful in the diagnosis and management of various pituitary, placental, pancreatic and hCG-producing tumors. The assay can also be useful for investigations where alpha subunit is increased under various physiological stimuli, e.g., GnRH stimulation and TRH stimulation tests.
Test Details
This test measures the alpha subunit that is common to LH, FSH, TSH and hCG. These hormones are comprised of identical alpha subunits and unique beta subunits that confer biological specificity.
Methodology
Electrochemiluminescence (ECLIA)
This test was developed and its analytical performance characteristics have been determined by Quest Diagnostics. It has not been cleared or approved by FDA. This assay has been validated pursuant to the CLIA regulations and is used for clinical purposes.
Reference Range(s)
| Males | 0.1-0.5 ng/mL | |||||
| Premenopausal Females | 0.1-0.6 ng/mL | |||||
| Postmenopausal Females | 0.1-1.5 ng/mL | |||||
| Pregnancy (1st and 2nd Trimesters) | 35.0-186.0 ng/mL | |||||
| Hypothyroidism | 0.2-3.2 ng/mL | |||||
This test measures the free alpha subunit that is common to LH, FSH, TSH and hCG. These hormones are comprised of identical alpha subunits and unique beta subunits that confer biological specificity.
Alternative Name(s)
Gonadotropin Alpha Subunit,Glycoprotein Alpha Subunit,Alpha Subunit of Pituitary,Pituitary Glycoprotein Hormone Alpha Subunit,Alpha Subunit of the Gonadotropin
Preferred Specimen(s)
1 mL serum
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Transport Container
Transport tube
Transport Temperature
Room temperature
Specimen Stability
- Room temperature: 7 days
- Refrigerated: 10 days
- Frozen: 28 days
Reject Criteria
Gross hemolysis • Plasma • Grossly icteric
Setup Schedule
1 mL serum
0.5 mL
Transport tube
Room temperature
Room temperature: 7 days
Refrigerated: 10 days
Frozen: 28 days
Refrigerated: 10 days
Frozen: 28 days
Gross hemolysis • Plasma • Grossly icteric