What is Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)?
Oct 13, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Yunmei
Introduction
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is a biomarker used to assess ovarian reserve function in women. It is primarily measured in women experiencing infertility and serves as a regulatory factor secreted by ovarian follicles and granulosa cells. The concentration of AMH in the blood correlates proportionally with the number of oocytes present in the ovaries; thus, measuring serum AMH levels allows estimation of the ovarian follicle pool. The normal reference range for AMH is 2–6.8 ng/mL.
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) testing provides a reliable and rapid assessment of ovarian reserve function, indicating the number of antral follicles potentially present in a woman’s ovaries—and thereby offering insight into her reproductive capacity and the likely onset of menopause. So, what exactly is anti-Müllerian hormone? Below, we address this question.
What Is Anti-Müllerian Hormone?
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) reflects ovarian reserve function in women and is frequently used to monitor infertility. It acts as a regulatory factor secreted by developing follicles and granulosa cells. Serum AMH concentration correlates proportionally with the number of oocytes remaining in the ovaries; thus, measuring AMH levels allows estimation of ovarian follicular quantity. Normal AMH levels range from 2–6.8 ng/mL. Higher AMH concentrations generally indicate a greater ovarian follicular pool. Additionally, younger women typically exhibit higher AMH levels than middle-aged women—a normal physiological phenomenon. If AMH falls below 1 ng/mL, women without fertility concerns generally require no treatment; however, those desiring pregnancy should seek formal medical evaluation and management at a healthcare facility.
Knowledge Extension: Causes of Premature Ovarian Failure (POF)
1. Genetic Factors
Chromosomal abnormalities—particularly X-chromosome anomalies—are among the leading causes of premature ovarian failure. As the X chromosome is unique to females, its structural integrity plays a critical role in maintaining normal ovarian function. Common X-linked genetic disorders associated with POF include Turner syndrome and fragile X syndrome.
2. Immune Factors
Studies indicate that 9%–40% of women with POF also have coexisting autoimmune disorders affecting other endocrine glands or organ systems—including autoimmune thyroiditis, systemic lupus erythematosus, myasthenia gravis, hypoparathyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, and diabetes mellitus.
3. Iatrogenic Factors
Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are common iatrogenic causes of premature ovarian failure. Radiation-induced ovarian damage depends on radiation field size and patient age; similarly, chemotherapy-related ovarian toxicity varies according to patient age, drug type, dosage, and duration of treatment. Pelvic surgery may also compromise ovarian blood supply or disrupt ovarian architecture.
The above outlines what anti-Müllerian hormone is. We hope this information proves helpful.
