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Follicle-stimulating hormone

(Science: hormone) An acidic glycoprotein secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. In women, follicle-stimulating hormone stimulates the development of ovarian follicles (eggs) and stimulates the release of oestrogens. In men, follicle-stimulating hormone stimulates the production of sperm.

abnormal follicle-stimulating hormone levels may be seen in the following conditions: hypopituitarism, Klinefelter syndrome, polycystic ovary disease, turners syndrome and ovarian failure.

Synonym: follitropin.

Acronym: fsh