Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) is a large 80-100 kDa glycoprotein that functions to transport sex hormones around the body. It has a high affinity for 17β-hydroxy steroids such as testosterone and oestradiol. Concentrations of SHBG are influenced by many factors. SHBG will be increased by elevated concentrations of circulating oestrogens (including the oral contraceptive pill), hyperthyroidism, liver disease and excess alcohol. SHBG will be decreased by increasing body mass index, polycystic ovarian syndrome and hypothyroidism.
Sample Requirements and Reference Ranges
| Sample type | Serum |
| Container | SST |
| Precautions | None |
| Minimum volume | 2 mL |
| Reference range | Age Male (nmol/L) Female (nmol/L)
3 - 10 years 45 - 220 50 - 170 10 - 12 years 22 - 188 38 - 129 Adult 13 - 70 20 - 155 |
| Turnaround time | 1 day |
| Method | Abbott Architect |
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