Estrone, LC/MS/MS Most Popular

The Estrone, LC/MS/MS test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker.

Brief Description: The Estrone test is a laboratory test that measures the levels of estrone, one of the three main types of estrogen, in the blood. Estrogen is a hormone primarily produced by the ovaries in females and in smaller amounts by the adrenal glands in both males and females.

Also Known As: E1 Test, Estrogen 1 Test

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When is an Estrone test ordered?

An Estrone test may be ordered in the following situations:

1. Evaluation of Menopausal Status: The test is commonly used to assess the hormonal changes associated with menopause. It can help determine if a woman has entered menopause, monitor hormone replacement therapy, or evaluate hormonal imbalances in postmenopausal women.

2. Investigation of Hormonal Disorders: In both males and females, an Estrone test can be ordered to investigate hormonal disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), adrenal gland disorders, or certain types of tumors that may affect estrogen production.

3. Assessment of Gynecomastia: Gynecomastia is the enlargement of breast tissue in males, often caused by hormonal imbalances. Measuring estrone levels can help identify the underlying hormonal abnormalities contributing to gynecomastia.

What does an Estrone test check for?

Estrogens are a class of steroids that have a role in the development and function of women's reproductive organs, as well as the generation of secondary sex characteristics. They help regulate the menstrual cycle, are involved in the growth of breasts and the uterus, and aid in the maintenance of a healthy pregnancy, together with another hormone, progesterone. Though they are primarily associated with women, they are also prevalent in men and play a role in bone metabolism and growth in both genders. Estrogen tests look for one of three hormones in the blood or urine: estrone, estradiol, or estriol.

Androstenedione or other androgens are directly transformed to estrone. The ovaries and placenta, as well as the testicles and adipose tissues, can all produce E1. As needed, E2 and E1 can be transformed into each other. In men and postmenopausal women, E1 is the main estrogen.

Sample Ulta Lab Tests View of Estrone Test Results

Sample Quest Result Report View of Estrone Test Results

Lab tests often ordered with an Estrone test:

When an Estrone test is ordered, it's often part of a broader assessment of hormonal health, particularly in the context of menopause, hormone replacement therapy, or certain endocrine disorders. Here are some tests commonly ordered alongside an Estrone test:

1. Estradiol Test:

   • Purpose: Estradiol is another form of estrogen and is the primary estrogen produced by premenopausal women.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To evaluate overall estrogenic activity. Estradiol levels provide insight into ovarian function, menstrual cycle abnormalities, or the effectiveness of hormone therapy.

2. Progesterone Test:

   • Purpose: Progesterone is a hormone that plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle and maintaining pregnancy.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To assess the balance between estrogen and progesterone, especially in evaluating menstrual irregularities or symptoms of menopause.

3. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH):

   • Purpose: These hormones regulate the menstrual cycle and stimulate the ovaries to produce estrogen.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To help determine menopausal status or diagnose disorders of the ovaries. Elevated levels are typically seen in menopause.

4. Testosterone Test:

   • Purpose: Testosterone, though known as a male hormone, is also present in women and can affect health and well-being.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To evaluate symptoms of excess androgens (like in polycystic ovary syndrome) or in the assessment of hormonal imbalance.

5. Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG):

   • Purpose: SHBG binds to sex hormones in the blood, affecting their availability.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To understand the levels of bioavailable hormones. Changes in SHBG can affect estrogen levels.

6. DHEA-Sulfate (DHEA-S) Test:

   • Purpose: DHEA-S is an androgen precursor produced by the adrenal glands.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To evaluate adrenal function and the balance of androgens to estrogens, as DHEA-S can be converted into estrogens.

7. Complete Blood Count (CBC):

   • Purpose: To provide a general overview of health.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Though not directly related to hormone levels, a CBC can provide insight into overall health, which may be relevant in the context of hormonal disorders.

8. Liver Function Test:

   • Purpose: To assess liver health.
   • Why Is It Ordered: The liver metabolizes hormones, and liver disorders can affect hormone levels and metabolism.

These tests, when ordered alongside an Estrone test, provide a comprehensive view of hormonal status and can assist in diagnosing, managing, and monitoring conditions related to hormonal imbalances, such as menopause, fertility issues, and hormone-related disorders. The specific tests selected depend on the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and the reasons for testing.

Conditions where an Estrone test is recommended:

An Estrone test may be helpful in diagnosing and managing the following conditions or diseases:

1. Menopause: The test is commonly used to evaluate hormonal changes associated with menopause and assess the need for hormone replacement therapy.

2. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder characterized by imbalances in estrogen, progesterone, and other hormones. Measuring estrone levels can contribute to the diagnosis and management of PCOS.

3. Adrenal Gland Disorders: Certain adrenal gland disorders, such as adrenal tumors or congenital adrenal hyperplasia, may affect estrogen production. Measuring estrone levels can provide insights into these conditions.

How does my healthcare provider use an Estrone test?

Healthcare providers use the results of the Estrone test to:

1. Evaluate Hormonal Status: Estrone levels help assess estrogen production and overall hormonal balance in both males and females.

2. Monitor Menopausal Hormone Therapy: In menopausal women receiving hormone replacement therapy, monitoring estrone levels ensures that estrogen levels are within the desired therapeutic range.

3. Investigate Hormonal Imbalances: Abnormal estrone levels can provide valuable information when investigating conditions such as PCOS, adrenal gland disorders, or gynecomastia.

It's important to note that the interpretation of Estrone test results should be done in the context of the individual's medical history, symptoms, and other relevant laboratory findings to establish an accurate diagnosis and guide appropriate management decisions.

What do my Estrone test results mean?

The sex and age of the person being tested influence the normal estrone readings. It also depends on a woman's menstrual cycle or whether she is pregnant. The normal values indicated and the units used in reference ranges will differ slightly between laboratories.

Estrone levels can rise or fall in a variety of metabolic situations. Estrone levels change from day to day and throughout a woman's menstrual cycle, therefore interpretation of the results must be done with caution.

Rather than examining single numbers, a health practitioner monitoring a woman's hormones will look at trends in the levels, rising or falling over time in connection with the menstrual cycle or pregnancy. The findings of a test are not diagnostic of a specific ailment, but they do provide information to a health care provider regarding the possible source of a person's symptoms or status.

Most Common Questions About the Estrone test:

Understanding the Estrone Test and Its Purpose

What is the Estrone test?

The Estrone test is a blood test that measures the amount of estrone, a type of estrogen, in the body. Estrone is one of three major estrogens produced by the body, the others being estradiol and estriol.

Why would a doctor order an Estrone test?

A doctor may order an Estrone test if a patient shows signs of a hormonal imbalance or if they want to monitor the efficacy of hormone replacement therapy. It's also often used in evaluating ovarian function and fertility.

Who might need an Estrone test?

Those who might need an Estrone test include women with symptoms of menopause, individuals undergoing hormone replacement therapy, or those with symptoms indicating estrogen-producing tumors.

Interpreting Test Results and Abnormal Findings

What do the results of an Estrone test mean?

The normal range of estrone in the blood varies depending on sex, age, and for women, the stage of the menstrual cycle or whether they're postmenopausal. High or low levels may indicate a hormonal imbalance, menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), tumors, or other health conditions.

What does a high Estrone test result indicate?

High estrone levels may suggest estrogen-producing tumors, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), obesity, or in men, conditions such as feminization or gynecomastia.

What does a low Estrone test result mean?

Low estrone levels may indicate menopause in women, hypogonadism in men, or conditions such as anorexia nervosa, which can affect hormone production.

Relationship with Other Tests and Conditions

How does the Estrone test relate to other hormonal tests?

The Estrone test is often used alongside tests for other hormones, like estradiol, estriol, and progesterone, to give a more complete picture of a person's hormonal balance. It's also commonly used with tests for FSH and LH in evaluating ovarian function and fertility.

Can the Estrone test diagnose menopause?

While the Estrone test can indicate if a woman is likely in menopause based on elevated levels, it isn't a definitive test for menopause. A diagnosis of menopause is typically based on symptoms and the cessation of menstruation.

Understanding the Implications and Health Impact

What role does estrone play in the body?

Estrone is one of three forms of estrogen in the body. It plays a role in the menstrual cycle, sexual function, bone health, and cardiovascular health. In postmenopausal women, estrone becomes the primary form of estrogen in the body.

What health conditions can be associated with abnormal Estrone levels?

Abnormal estrone levels can be associated with menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), estrogen-producing tumors, anorexia nervosa, hypogonadism in men, and other conditions affecting hormone balance.

Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment

What factors might influence my Estrone levels?

Estrone levels can be influenced by age, sex, menstrual cycle in women, body mass index (BMI), certain medications (including hormone replacement therapy or birth control), and overall health status.

How can I maintain or improve my Estrone levels?

Estrone levels are typically regulated by the body, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding excessive alcohol, can support overall hormonal balance.

What treatment options exist for abnormal Estrone levels?

Treatment for abnormal estrone levels depends on the underlying cause. Hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills might be used to regulate estrone levels in women. Lifestyle modifications, like weight management, might also be recommended. In cases of tumors, surgical removal or other cancer treatments might be necessary.

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