INHIBIN B Detail

Inhibin B is a glycoprotein hormone primarily produced by:

• Sertoli cells in the testes (in males),

• Granulosa cells in the ovaries (in females).

It plays a key role in regulating the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and reflects the function of germ cells and gonads.

Clinical Uses:

1. In Males:

• Inhibin B is a marker of spermatogenesis.

• Levels correlate with sperm count and quality.

• Low levels may indicate:

  • Testicular dysfunction,

  • Impaired sperm production,

  • Infertility (especially non-obstructive azoospermia),

  • Hypogonadism.

2. In Females:

• Inhibin B levels reflect ovarian reserve (the number of remaining viable eggs).

• It is used in:

  • Fertility assessments,

  • Ovarian function testing,

  • Predicting response to ovarian stimulation in IVF.

• Low Inhibin B suggests reduced ovarian reserve, often seen with aging or early menopause.

3. Tumor Marker:

• Inhibin B is a tumor marker for:

  • Granulosa cell tumors of the ovary,

  • Sertoli or Leydig cell tumors in the testes.

• Used for diagnosis, monitoring, and recurrence detection.