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Test Code 1130

Test Details

Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)

SHBG is a glycoprotein that binds to sex hormones, specifically testosterone and estradiol.

Methodology

Chemiluminescence

Patient Preparation

None

Preferred Specimen

Green Top Tube
(Lithium Heparin plasma separator tube with gel)

Alternate Specimen

Dried Blood collected on an AdvanceDx 100 card

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated (ship on frozen cold packs)

Stability

Refrigerated: 6 days

Lab Values

Lab Values

Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)

Female

Age Optimal
Adult <50 yrs 17.69 – 138.26 nmol/L
Adult ≥50 yrs 23.65 – 110.61 nmol/L

 

Male

Age Optimal
Adult <50 yrs 11.54 – 54.49 nmol/L
Adult  ≥50 yrs 17.33 – 71.50 nmol/L

 

Test Details
Clinical Significance

Clinical Significance

Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)

  • Elevated SHBG levels can be seen:1-4
    • In elderly men
    • In patients with hyperthyroidism and cirrhosis of the liver
    • When oral contraceptives or antiepileptic drugs are taken
  • Markedly higher SHBG levels are seen in pregnant women due to their increased estrogen
    production1-4
  • Decreased SHBG concentrations are often seen with:1-4
    • Hypothyroidism
    • Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
    • Obesity
    • Elevated androgen levels
  • High doses of biotin (> 5 mg/day) may interfere with assay results. Patient assumed to be refraining from biotin supplementation for at least 3 days prior to blood draw.

References:

  1. Bhasin S, Cunningham GR, Hayes FJ, et al. Testosterone therapy in men with androgen deficiency syndromes: Endocrine Society clinical practice guidelines. J Clin Endorcinol Metab. 2010;95(6):2536-2559.
  2. Santen RJ, Allred DC, Ardoin SP, et al. Postmenopausal hormone therapy: an Endocrine Society scientific statement. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2010;95(7 Suppl 1):s1-s66.
  3. Kopper NW, Gudeman J, Thompson DJ. Transdermal hormone therapy in postmenopausal women: a review of the metabolic eff ects and drug delivery technologies. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2008;2:193-202.
  4. Goodman N, Cobin RH. Reproductive disorders. In: Camacho PM, Gharib H, Sizemore GW, eds. Evidence-Based Endocrinology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. 2012:190-228.
Lab Values
Treatment Options

Treatment Options

Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)

  • Identify etiology of elevated or decreased LH levels with physical assessment and additional diagnostic tests as indicated
  • Treatment is based on etiology of abnormal hormone level
Clinical Significance