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Gonadorelin Stimulation Test

Meaning

The Gonadorelin Stimulation Test, also known as the Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Stimulation Test, is a dynamic endocrine diagnostic procedure used to accurately assess the functional capacity of the pituitary gland’s gonadotroph cells. Clinicians use this test to differentiate between primary hypogonadism, which is a problem originating in the gonads, and secondary or tertiary hypogonadism, which is a problem originating in the pituitary or hypothalamus, respectively. The test involves administering a synthetic form of Gonadorelin and subsequently measuring the resulting surge in Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) in the blood. Interpreting the precise pattern of LH and FSH response is critical for localizing the source of the hormonal deficiency.