Purpose of Test:
To determine serum concentration of FSH in order to obtain information about
reproductive function.  Reasons to perform a FSH test vary with the species and include:

	to check for neuter/spay status
	to aid in the diagnosis of reproductive disorders

Description of test and procedures:
The test is a radioimmunoassay performed with in-house reagents.  The radioimmunoassay technique is based on the competitive binding of the serum FSH and a radiolabeled FSH preparation.  They compete for binding to an antibody specific for FSH.  The antibody-bound radiolabeled FSH is separated and the quantity is determined by counting on a gamma spectrometer.  Results for the unknown are read from a curve prepared by plotting results for a set of known standards. Serum with a pre-determined concentration are included in the assay for quality control purposes.

Sample Needed and Procedures for Submittal:  Submit at least 1mL of serum on a cold pack.
It may be possible to perform this analysis with less serum, but laboratory approval is required.

Schedule For Running Test:
Assay preparation begins Wednesday morning and results are reported the following Monday afternoon.

Interpretation of Results:
Results should be interpreted by a veterinary clinician or researcher familiar with reproductive function in the species being tested.