Question:

Which of the following is used for the hormonal testing of sub-fertile and infertile stallions?
(A). Serum FSH, LH, Estradiol, Testosterone and Inhibin levels
(B). Single-phase GnRH challenge
(C). hCG stimulation test
(D). Progestagen treatment test
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Show Hint

The hCG stimulation test is highly reliable: in a castrated gelding, there will be no increase in testosterone after hCG, whereas a cryptorchid stallion with retained abdominal testes will show a significant spike in testosterone.
  • (A), (B) and (C) only.
  • (B) (C) and (D) only.
  • (A), (C) and (D) only.
  • (A), (B), and (D) only.
Show Solution
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Hormonal testing in the stallion is indicated to diagnose causes of infertility, subfertility, cryptorchidism, or testicular degeneration.
It involves evaluating the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Let us evaluate each hormonal testing option:
- (A) Serum hormone levels: Measuring baseline levels of FSH, LH, Testosterone, Estradiol (or Estrone Sulfate), and Inhibin provides a comprehensive assessment of testicular function. Inhibin and FSH levels are particularly useful for assessing Sertoli cell function and spermatogenesis. (Correct)
- (B) GnRH challenge test: This dynamic test involves administering GnRH and measuring subsequent LH and FSH release. It evaluates the pituitary gland's secretory capacity and reserves. (Correct)
- (C) hCG stimulation test: hCG acts like LH. Administering hCG and measuring plasma testosterone levels 1-2 hours later evaluates Leydig cell responsiveness. It is the gold standard test to confirm the presence of testicular tissue (cryptorchidism vs gelding) or Leydig cell dysfunction. (Correct)
- (D) Progestagen treatment test: Progestagens (like altrenogest) are used in mares to suppress estrus or maintain pregnancy. They are not used as a diagnostic hormonal test for stallion fertility.
Therefore, (A), (B), and (C) are the correct dynamic and static tests used.

Step 3: Final Answer:

The tests used are (A), (B), and (C) only, corresponding to option (A).
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