ng/mL to mIU/L Converter
Convert mass concentration (ng/mL) to biological activity (mIU/L) for hormones like hCG, LH, and FSH using WHO standard factors.
About
In clinical endocrinology, laboratory results often vary in units depending on the assay kit manufacturer or the geographic region. Converting between mass concentration, measured in ng/mL (nanograms per milliliter), and biological activity, measured in mIU/L (milli-International Units per liter), is not a simple linear scaling. It requires a specific bioactivity factor unique to each molecule.
This tool bridges the gap by utilizing World Health Organization (WHO) International Standards to define these conversion factors. Precision is paramount here. A misinterpretation of hCG levels in early pregnancy or LH levels during fertility treatments can lead to incorrect clinical assessments. This utility allows professionals to select specific analytes to ensure the correct molecular weight and bioactivity ratios are applied, rather than relying on a generic and often incorrect multiplier.
Formulas
The conversion relies on a substance-specific coefficient derived from the specific biological activity per unit of mass. The general equation is:
Where F is the conversion factor. For example, for Insulin, the conversion is derived from:
If a custom factor is required due to a specific lab assay kit calibration, use the custom input field.
Reference Data
| Substance | Classification | Approx. Factor (ng/mL → mIU/L) | WHO Standard Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beta-hCG (Total) | Pregnancy Hormone | 5000 - 13000 | 3rd IS 75/537 or 4th IS |
| FSH (Follicle Stimulating) | Reproductive | 10 - 15 | WHO 2nd IRP 78/549 |
| LH (Luteinizing Hormone) | Reproductive | 20 - 25 | WHO 2nd IS 80/552 |
| Prolactin | Pituitary | 21.2 | WHO 3rd IS 84/500 |
| Insulin | Metabolic | 28.7 | WHO 1st IRP 66/304 |
| TSH (Thyrotropin) | Thyroid | 5 - 8 | WHO 2nd IRP 80/558 |
| Growth Hormone (GH) | Pituitary | 3 | WHO 98/574 |
| Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) | Fertility | 7.14 | Gen II Assay |