Overview: Inhibin A Reproductive TestIntroduction: The Inhibin A Reproductive Test measures inhibin A to assess fertility or ovarian tumors, causing infertility or pain. Aligned with 2023 ASRM guidelines, it uses immunoassay for high specificity, supporting reproductive screening. This test is critical for guiding diagnosis, treatment planning, and improving outcomes in endocrinology for patients with suspected ovarian dysfunction or tumors.
Other Names: Inhibin A Repro Assay, Ovarian Tumor Test.
FDA Status: Laboratory-developed test (LDT), meeting endocrinology standards for diagnostic accuracy.
Historical Milestone: Inhibin A testing for reproductive health began in the 1990s with fertility research. Immunoassay-based methods improved in the 2000s, enhancing diagnostic precision.
Purpose: Measures inhibin A to assess fertility or ovarian tumors, guides treatment, and evaluates patients with infertility or pain.
Test Parameters: 1. Inhibin A (Reproductive)
Pretest Condition: Fasting 10-12 hours required. Collect serum or plasma. Report history of infertility, pelvic pain, or irregular menstruation.
Specimen: Serum (SST, 2-5 mL), Plasma (EDTA, 2-4 mL). Transport in a biohazard container.
Sample Stability at Room Temperature: 8 hours
Sample Stability at Refrigeration: 7 days
Sample Stability at Frozen: 6 months
Medical History: Document infertility, pelvic pain, irregular menstruation, or family history of ovarian tumors. Include current medications, especially fertility drugs.
Consent: Written consent required, detailing the tests purpose, fertility or tumor implications, and risks of blood collection.
Procedural Considerations: Uses immunoassay to measure inhibin A in serum or plasma. Results are available in 1-2 days, supporting rapid clinical decisions. Performed in laboratories, often for fertility or ovarian tumor assessment.
Factors Affecting Result Accuracy: Hemolysis, lipemia, or improper sample storage can affect results. Non-fasting samples may reduce accuracy.
Clinical Significance: Elevated inhibin A suggests ovarian tumors (e.g., granulosa cell tumors) or fertility issues, guiding surgery or fertility treatment. Normal levels may require further testing.
Specialist Consultation: Consult a reproductive endocrinologist or oncologist for result interpretation and treatment planning.
Additional Supporting Tests: Inhibin B, AMH, or pelvic ultrasound to assess fertility or ovarian tumors.
Test Limitations: Not specific to one condition; clinical correlation is needed. Other conditions may affect inhibin A levels.
References: ASRM Fertility Guidelines, 2023; Journal of Clinical Endocrinology, Groome NP, 2022.
