Aiding in the diagnosis of patients with granulosa cell tumors of the ovary when used in combination with inhibin B
Monitoring of patients with granulosa cell tumors and epithelial mucinous-type tumors of the ovary known to secrete inhibin A
For the initial evaluation of patients suspected of having a granulosa cell tumor of the ovary, order INHAB (Inhibin A and B, Tumor Marker, Serum)
Specimen Type
Serum
Specimen Requirements
Preferred: Red Top
Acceptable: Serum Gel (SST)
Minimum Sample Volume
0.5 mL
Stability
Refrigerated (preferred): 7 days
Frozen: 90 days
Unacceptable Specimen Conditions
Gross hemolysis
Limitations
Do not interpret serum inhibin levels as absolute evidence of the presence or the absence of malignant disease. Use results in conjunction with information from the clinical evaluation of the patient and other diagnostic procedures
Inhibin values fluctuate during the menstrual cycle. Inhibin levels in premenopausal women should be interpreted with caution
Some patients who have been exposed to animal antigens, either in the environment or as part of treatment or imaging procedures, may have circulating antianimal antibodies present. These antibodies may interfere with the assay reagents to produce unreliable results
Tumor markers are not specific for malignancy and values may vary by testing methodology. The same method should be used to serially monitor patients.
