Quantification of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in dried blood spots: validation of a minimally invasive method for assessing ovarian reserve

Authors: McDade, Thomas W.; Woodruff, Teresa K.; Huang, Yuan-yen; Funk, William E.; Prewitt, Maureen; Kondapalli, Laxmi; Gracia, Clarisa R.

Source: Human Reproduction, Volume 27, Number 8, 22 August 2012 , pp. 2503-2508(6)

Publisher: Oxford University Press

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Abstract:

BACKGROUND

Biological markers of ovarian reserve have the potential to advance research on fecundability, infertility and reproductive aging. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) has emerged as a clinically useful measure of ovarian reserve, but the requirement for venous blood is an obstacle to application in non-clinical settings. This paper validates a new method for quantifying AMH in dried blood spot (DBS) samples—drops of whole blood collected on filter paper following a simple finger stick.

METHODS

Matched serum and DBS samples were obtained from n = 101 women of reproductive age, and AMH values were compared using regression analyses and scatter plots. The precision, reliability, linearity, recovery and lower detection limit of the DBS assay were evaluated, as well as the stability of AMH in DBS across a range of storage conditions.

RESULTS

There was a strong agreement between AMH concentrations measured in DBS and serum samples across the entire assay range. Analysis of within-assay (percent coefficient of variation, 4.7-6.5%) and between-assay (3.5-7.2%) variability indicated a high level of assay precision and reliability, respectively. The minimum detectable dose of AMH was 0.065 ng/ml. Concentrations of AMH remained stable in DBS samples stored for 2 weeks at room temperature, and for 4 weeks when refrigerated.

CONCLUSIONS

The DBS assay performs at a level that is comparable to serum-based methods, with the advantage of lower burdens and costs associated with blood collection that may be advantageous for research in clinical as well as non-clinical settings on the causes and consequences of variation in ovarian reserve.

Keywords: ovary; ovarian follicle; Müllerian inhibiting substance; infertility; immunoassay

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/humrep/des194

Publication date: 2012-08-22

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Human Reproduction features full-length, peer-reviewed papers reporting original research, clinical case histories, as well as opinions and debates on topical issues. Papers published cover the scientific and medical aspects of reproductive physiology and pathology, endocrinology, andrology, gonad function, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, genetics, genetic diagnosis, oncology, infectious disease, surgery, contraception, infertility treatment, psychology, ethics and social issues. The highest scientific and editorial standard is maintained throughout the journal along with a rapid rate of publication.

Quantification of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in dried blood spots: validation of a minimally invasive method for assessing ovarian reserve

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