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Pituitary-Gonadal Axis Testing

Meaning

Pituitary-Gonadal Axis Testing is a specialized diagnostic protocol used in clinical endocrinology to evaluate the functional integrity and feedback control between the pituitary gland and the gonads (testes or ovaries). This testing is essential for investigating disorders of puberty, fertility, and hypogonadism in both sexes, as it provides insight into whether a hormonal imbalance is centrally or peripherally driven. The panel typically measures Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH), Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), and the respective sex steroids, such as testosterone or estradiol. This comprehensive evaluation is the cornerstone of reproductive and age-related hormonal assessment.