Inhibin A - Serum

INHIBIN A - SERUM This Test is a blood test that measures the level of inhibin A, a hormone produced primarily by the ovaries in females and in smaller amounts by the testes in males. This test is commonly used as part of prenatal screening (such as the quadruple marker test) to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome.

The purpose of this test is to:

• Measure inhibin A hormone levels in the blood
• Assess reproductive and ovarian function
• Support prenatal screening for chromosomal abnormalities
• Aid in diagnosis of certain ovarian conditions

INHIBIN A - SERUM Test

The Inhibin A - Serum test measures the concentration of Inhibin A, a hormone produced mainly by the ovaries in non-pregnant women and by the placenta during pregnancy. Inhibin A plays a role in regulating the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and is associated with reproductive function.

During pregnancy, serum inhibin A is an important component of certain second-trimester maternal screening tests. Abnormal inhibin A levels, when combined with other screening markers and maternal factors, may help assess the risk of certain fetal chromosomal conditions, including Down syndrome (trisomy 21).

Outside pregnancy, inhibin A may also provide information about ovarian function and certain ovarian conditions. The result should always be interpreted according to the individual's age, pregnancy status, gestational age, symptoms, and other laboratory findings.

This Test is Recommended for Individuals:

• Pregnant women undergoing second-trimester prenatal screening, when included in the screening panel
• Individuals requiring assessment of maternal serum screening markers
• Women undergoing evaluation of certain ovarian or reproductive conditions
• Individuals requiring additional hormonal assessment as advised by a healthcare professional

FAQs

1. What is the Inhibin A - Serum test?
It is a blood test that measures Inhibin A, a hormone involved in reproductive function. During pregnancy, it may be included as part of maternal serum screening.

2. Why is Inhibin A tested during pregnancy?
Inhibin A is used as one of the markers in certain second-trimester prenatal screening programs. When combined with other markers, maternal age, and pregnancy information, it can help estimate the likelihood of certain chromosomal conditions.

3. Does an abnormal Inhibin A result confirm a chromosomal condition?
No. An abnormal Inhibin A level does not by itself diagnose a chromosomal condition. It is a screening marker, and an increased or decreased result may require interpretation alongside other screening results and, when appropriate, further diagnostic testing.