Hormones are chemical messengers that are carried in the blood and regulate metabolism, growth, reproduction, and mood. When the glands produce too much or too little of them, diseases develop. Hormone tests help measure the levels of these substances and understand the cause of symptoms.
Why hormone tests are performed
Hormone tests are ordered when an endocrine gland disorder is suspected. They help confirm an excess or deficiency of a hormone. Hormones affect growth and development, metabolism, sexual function, reproduction, and mood. An excess or deficiency of a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, thyroid gland, pancreas, or gonads can cause disease. In men, hormones are produced by the testes; in women, by the ovaries. Because hormones act slowly and affect many processes, their levels can change with aging, pregnancy, and the use of certain medications. Therefore, the results should be interpreted by a doctor.
What types of hormone tests exist
Laboratory tests can measure hormone levels in blood, urine, or saliva. Depending on the clinical task, the doctor may order various tests, for example for cortisol, ACTH, aldosterone, FSH, LH, prolactin, testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, parathyroid hormone, renin, IGF-1, DHEA sulfate, sex hormone-binding globulin, and other markers.
Blood hormone test: what it shows
A blood test can determine the concentration of hormones in the body. For example, cortisol is related to adrenal gland function. However, the result depends on age, pregnancy, the use of certain medications, and other factors. The result is assessed by a doctor.
Comprehensive hormone panel: what it may include
A comprehensive hormone panel includes several markers to assess the function of interrelated glands. Depending on the symptoms, the doctor may order several tests from the list. Such a set helps build an overall picture, but it is prescribed by a doctor individually.
How to read the results and what abnormalities mean
Test results are interpreted by a doctor. A deviation from the norm does not always mean disease: hormone levels are affected by age, pregnancy, and medication use. Making a diagnosis requires symptoms, an examination, and additional tests.
When to see an endocrinologist
The doctor performs tests when symptoms of a hormonal disorder are present. If hormonal problems are suspected, a consultation with an endocrinologist is needed. The doctor will decide which examinations are required in each case.
A change in hormonal levels alone is not a reason to call an ambulance. Call 103 or 112 for a life-threatening condition (signs of stroke or heart attack).
- Hormone tests are ordered by a doctor after assessing symptoms.
- Hormone levels can change with aging, pregnancy, and the use of certain medications.
- A deviation in a single marker does not always indicate disease.
- Additional tests and consultations may be needed to clarify the diagnosis.
This material is for reference purposes and does not replace a doctor's consultation.
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This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer