5-alpha-reductase converts testosterone, DHEA and androstenedione into DHT. DHT is responsible for external mascularisation of males. Hence its deficiency leads to ambiguous genitalia in males. Circulating concentrations are of little significance in females.
Tube
01 (SE) – Serum Gel
ID
Tests&Tubes12632
Availability
Monthly
Additional information
To investigate ambiguous genitalia in neonates and young children. To investigate suspicion of 5alpha- reductase deficiency. Very low levels could indicate an enzyme deficiency.
Turn around
35 days
Send to
Endocrinology Laboratory
Contact
01132067043
Advice
01132064717, [email protected]
Collection Con
No restrictions
Sample REQ
Blood
Ref. Range (Male)
0.4-1.9
Ref. Range (Female)
<0.5
Ref. Range (Paed)
Paediatric samples – no ranges, interpretive comment added for HCG tests
Units
nmol/L