Blood tests

DIAGNOSING POI:

• To diagnose premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) serial FSH levels are required. For more information, see diagnosis section.

INVESTIGATING THE CAUSE OF SPONTANEOUS POI:

• Where the underlying cause of POI is not known, autoantibody testing should be performed.
• The most clinically significant autoimmune association of POI is with adrenal insufficiency, and testing for adrenal cortex or 21-hydroxylase antibodies should be undertaken.
• Thyroid peroxidase autoantibodies should also be checked due to the frequent co-existence of autoimmune thyroid disorders.
• Tests for other autoimmune conditions can be considered if clinically indicated. Other linked conditions include RA, IBD, coeliac's disease and type 1 diabetes.
• NICE says additional testing of serum LH, estradiol, prolactin, testosterone and TSH levels may be helpful.

• Ovarian antibody testing is not recommended.
• There is no indication for routine infection screening.