Compare - Male Hormone Advanced (LGC)

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Estradiol

Estradiol (estradiol-17 beta, E2) is part of an estrogen that is a group of steroids that regulate the menstrual cycle and function as the main female sex hormones. Estrogens are responsible for the development of female sex organs and secondary sex characteristics and are tied to the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. They are considered the main sex hormones in women and are present in small quantities in men. Estradiol (E2) is the predominant form of estrogen and is produced primarily in the ovaries with additional amounts produced by the adrenal glands in women and in the testes and adrenal glands in men. Estradiol levels are used in evaluating ovarian function. Estradiol levels are increased in cases of early (precocious) puberty in girls and gynecomastia in men. Its main use has been in the differential diagnosis of amenorrhea – for example, to determine whether the cause is menopause, pregnancy, or a medical problem. In assisted reproductive technology (ART), serial measurements are used to monitor follicle development in the ovary in the days prior to in vitro fertilization. Estradiol is also sometimes used to monitor menopausal hormone replacement therapy.

Also known as: PRL

Prolactin

Prolactin is a hormone produced by the anterior portion of the pituitary gland, a grape-sized organ found at the base of the brain. Prolactin secretion is regulated and inhibited by the brain chemical dopamine. Normally present in low amounts in men and non-pregnant women, prolactin's primary role is to promote lactation (breast milk production). Prolactin levels are usually high throughout pregnancy and just after childbirth. During pregnancy, the hormones prolactin, estrogen, and progesterone stimulate breast milk development. Following childbirth, prolactin helps initiate and maintain the breast milk supply. If a woman does not breastfeed, her prolactin level soon drops back to pre-pregnancy levels. If she does nurse, suckling by the infant plays an important role in the release of prolactin. There is a feedback mechanism between how often the baby nurses and the amount of prolactin secreted by the pituitary as well as the amount of milk produced. Another common cause of elevated prolactin levels is a prolactinoma, a prolactin-producing tumor of the pituitary gland. Prolactinomas are the most common type of pituitary tumor and are usually benign. They develop more frequently in women but are also found in men. Problems resulting from them can arise both from the unintended effects of excess prolactin, such as milk production in the non-pregnant woman (and rarely, man) and from the size and location of the tumor. If the anterior pituitary gland and/or the tumor enlarge significantly, it can put pressure on the optic nerve, causing headaches and visual disturbances, and it can interfere with the other hormones that the pituitary gland produces. In women, prolactinomas can cause infertility and irregularities in menstruation; in men, these tumors can cause a gradual loss in sexual function and libido. If left untreated, prolactinomas may eventually damage the tissues around them.

Also known as: Testosterone Total And Free And Sex Hormone Binding Globulin

Free Testosterone

In many cases, measurement of total testosterone provides the doctor with adequate information. However, in certain cases, for example when the level of SHBG is abnormal, a test for free or bioavailable testosterone may be performed as it may more accurately reflect the presence of a medical condition.

Sex Hormone Binding

The sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) test measures the concentration of SHBG in the blood. SHBG is a protein that is produced by the liver and binds tightly to testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and estradiol (an estrogen). In this bound state, it transports them in the blood as an inactive form. The amount of SHBG in circulation is affected by age and sex, by decreased or increased testosterone or estrogen production and can be affected by certain diseases and conditions such as liver disease, hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, and obesity. Changes in SHBG levels can affect the amount of testosterone that is available to be used by the body's tissues. A total testosterone test does not distinguish between bound and unbound testosterone but determines the overall quantity of testosterone. If a person's SHBG level is not normal, then the total testosterone may not be an accurate representation of the amount of testosterone that is available to the person's tissues.

TESTOSTERONE, TOTAL,

A testosterone test measures the amount of the male hormone, testosterone, in the blood. Both men and women produce this hormone. In males, the testicles produce most of the testosterone in the body. Levels are most often checked to evaluate signs of low testosterone: In boys -- early or late puberty and in men -- impotence, low level of sexual interest, infertility, thinning of the bones In females, the ovaries produce most of the testosterone and levels are most often checked to evaluate signs of higher testosterone levels, such as: decreased breast size, excess hair growth, increased size of the clitoris. irregular or absent menstrual periods and male-pattern baldness or hair thinning.
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The Compare - Male Hormone Advanced (LGC) panel contains 3 tests with 5 biomarkers.

Why pay $179 for Lets Get Checked's Male Hormone Advanced finger prick test kit when you can experience the convenience and affordablity of a Male Hormone Advanced lab test with Ulta Lab Tests - compare now and save!

Male Hormone Advanced Lab Test

The Male Hormone Advanced lab test is an extensive diagnostic assessment that measures a combination of hormone markers in a male's bloodstream. This comprehensive test evaluates key hormones involved in male reproductive and endocrine health, providing valuable insights into hormonal balance and overall well-being.

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: Administration of STRENSIQ may interfere in certain assays and may falsely elevate values. For patients receiving STRENSIQ, consideration should be given to using alternate methods.

Note: For any patients for whom low estradiol levels are anticipated the Estradiol, Ultrasensitive, LC/MS/MS #30289 assay is recommended.

When and Why the Male Hormone Advanced Lab Test May Be Ordered

Timing of the Test: The Male Hormone Advanced lab test can be ordered at any time and typically does not require fasting. It is performed for various reasons, depending on the clinical context, the patient's symptoms, or specific health concerns.

Reasons for Ordering the Test:

  1. Evaluation of Hormonal Imbalances: Healthcare providers may order the Male Hormone Advanced lab test to diagnose and assess hormonal imbalances in males. These imbalances can manifest as symptoms such as changes in libido, mood swings, fatigue, and fertility issues.

  2. Low Libido and Sexual Dysfunction: If a male experiences low libido, erectile dysfunction, or reduced sexual performance, the test can help identify hormonal factors contributing to these issues.

  3. Fertility Assessment: In cases of infertility, the Male Hormone Advanced lab test evaluates hormone levels, including testosterone, estradiol, and prolactin, to identify potential factors affecting sperm production and quality.

  4. Monitoring Hormone Replacement Therapy: For males undergoing hormone replacement therapy, such as testosterone replacement therapy, regular testing helps healthcare providers monitor hormone levels and adjust treatment regimens as needed.

What the Male Hormone Advanced Lab Test Checks For

The Male Hormone Advanced lab test measures several hormone markers:

  1. Testosterone Total: This marker measures the total concentration of testosterone in the blood, including both bound and unbound forms. Testosterone is a crucial male sex hormone that plays a role in various physiological functions.

  2. Free Androgen Index (Testosterone Free): This marker assesses the amount of unbound or "free" testosterone in the bloodstream, which is the biologically active form of the hormone.

  3. Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG): SHBG is a protein that binds to sex hormones, including testosterone and estradiol. It regulates the availability of these hormones in the bloodstream by binding to them. A high level of SHBG can reduce the amount of free testosterone available for use by the body.

  4. Estradiol: Estradiol is a form of estrogen, and its measurement can provide insights into hormonal balance. While it is typically present in smaller quantities in males compared to females, estradiol still plays a role in various bodily functions.

  5. Prolactin: Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that is typically associated with lactation. Abnormal levels of prolactin in males can affect sexual function and fertility.

How Health Care Providers Use the Results

Interpreting the results of the Male Hormone Advanced lab test is essential for diagnosing and managing hormonal health:

  1. Diagnosis of Hormonal Imbalances: Abnormal levels of testosterone, free testosterone, SHBG, estradiol, or prolactin can indicate hormonal imbalances. Healthcare providers use these results to diagnose conditions like hypogonadism, hypergonadism, or other endocrine disorders.

  2. Treatment Planning: For males with hormonal imbalances causing symptoms like low libido, erectile dysfunction, or mood disturbances, the test results guide treatment decisions. Treatment may include hormone replacement therapy or other interventions to restore hormonal balance.

  3. Fertility Assessment: The test results can help healthcare providers evaluate the hormonal factors affecting fertility, potentially contributing to the diagnosis and treatment of infertility issues.

  4. Monitoring Hormone Replacement Therapy: For individuals receiving hormone replacement therapy, regular testing helps healthcare providers ensure that hormone levels remain within the desired range and make adjustments to treatment plans as necessary.

In summary, the Male Hormone Advanced lab test assesses a combination of key hormone markers involved in male reproductive and endocrine health. It aids in diagnosing hormonal imbalances, guiding treatment decisions, evaluating fertility, and monitoring hormone replacement therapy, ultimately contributing to improved overall well-being and quality of life for males.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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