Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
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.
To investigate ambiguous genitalia in neonates and young children. To investigate suspicion of 5alpha- reductase deficiency.
Specimen container paediatric:
Serum preferred
Lithium Heparin or EDTA acceptable
Specimen container adult:
Serum preferred
Lithium Heparin or EDTA acceptable
Minimum volume paediatric:
2.5 mL blood
Minimum volume adult:
2.5 mL blood
Special requirements:
Store sample at -20°C
Transport requirements:
Post at ambient temperature
Reference ranges:
Adult male (>16 yr): 0.4 – 1.9 nmol/L
Adult female (>16 yr): <0.5 nmol/L
Other Info:
Referral Laboratory: Specialist Laboratory Medicine, Block 46, St James Hospital, Beckett Street, Leeds LS9 7TF