Inhibin B as a Marker for Detection of Ovarian Activity in Premature Ovarian Failure

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate Inhibin B in women with premature ovarian failure POF and its role as a marker for ovarian reserve in comparison to FSH. Methodology: This study was conducted in the infertility center in Basra Maternity and Child Hospital. About 75 women were divided into 3 groups, each of 25 women, group (A) with premature ovarian failure, Group (B) menopause women and group (C) normally fertile cycling women. Inhibin B and FSH were measured and comparison were made between the three groups, then Inhibin B and FSH level were studied in group (A) before and after (4-6 months) of hormonal replacement therapy. Results: The mean FSH was (81.4 ± 28.4 IU/ml) in group A, (97.7 ± 25.5 IU/ml) in group B and (4.87 ± 2.3 IU/ml) in group C. Inhibin B was (1.8 ± 2.8 pg/ml) in group A, (1 ± 0.9 pg/ml) in group B and (53.1 ± 17.1 pg/ml) in group C. After hormonal replacement therapy in group A, mean FSH was (56.3 ± 13.4 IU/ml) and mean Inhibin B was (1.4 ± 12.4 pg/ml). There was significant decrease in FSH level but no significant changes in Inhibin B among group A women. Conclusion: Inhibin B level in women with premature ovarian failure is so low when compared to normal cycling women and close to the levels in the menopause women, it was not affected by exogenous estrogen intake as seen with FSH. Because it's main source in the female body is the preantral follicles, all this indicates Inhibin B is a good marker for ovarian reserve in women with premature ovarian failure.