Search results for: 'growth hormone blood test'

This panel includes hormones that have been implicated in gynecomastia by several studies. Gynecomastia is a benign enlargement of the male breast resulting from a growth of the glandular tissue of the breast. Since it causes anxiety, psychosocial discomfort and fear of breast cancer, early diagnostic evaluation is important, and patients usually seek medical attention. Causes include hormone imbalance and genetic predisposition.

The most complete of all blood test panels for men that include: Total and Free Testosterone, Ultra Sensitive Estradiol, IGF-1, Prolactin, DHT, DHEA-S, PSA, SHBG, Lipids, CBC, CMP, and Thyroid Function (TSH, Free T3, Free T4).

Here is a list of 14 carefully selected lab tests and panels that are essential in maintaining proper health while improving body composition and strength: Hematocrit, Lipid panel (LDL, HDL, triglycerides), Cystatin C kidney test, eGFR kidney test, GGT liver test, Total Testosterone (LC/MS), Free Testosterone (Equilibrium Ultrafiltration), Ultrasensitive Estradiol, Prolactin, DHT test (LC/MS), IGF-1 test (LC/MS), and ferritin. Fasting is required.

Iodine, Serum/Plasma - Iodine is an essential element that is required for thyroid hormone production. The measurement of iodine serves as an index of adequate dietary intake and iodine overload, particularly from iodine-containing drugs.

This affordable male hormone panel includes the most accurate assays used as gold standard for measuring:

1. Total Testosterone (Liquid chromatography/MS-MS) 
2.  Free Testosterone (Equilibrium Ultrafiltration)
3.  Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG)
4.  Estradiol, Ultra Sensitive (LC/MS-MS) 
5.  DHT level  (LC/MS) 
6.  Prolactin
7.  Dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEA-S)

Insulin-like Growth Factor 1, also known as IGF-1, is used as a biomarker for blood levels of human growth hormone. It is a hormone produced by the liver and other tissues which affects growth-promoting activities and glucose metabolism. The blood level of IGF-1 appears to fluctuate over 24 hours and is found to be related to growth hormone secretion.

This test measures the amount of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the blood.  Low DHT has been associated with low libido and high DHT has been linked to acne, hair loss and benign prostatic inflammation in a minority of men.

This test measures Zinc levels in red blood cells (RBC). Red blood cell (RBC) analysis is an invaluable method for assessing insufficiency or excess of elements that have important functions within cells or on blood cell membranes. It may be more accurate than testing Zinc in blood serum.

Approximately 95% of IGF-1 and IGF-II are bound to IGFBP-3, which makes this protein the major carrier of the insulin-like growth factors in circulation. The function of the binding protein is to extend the half-life of the growth factors in the circulation.

To find out if sperm count is normalized in men using hCG plus TRT, several studies have found that 17OH-P blood level is correlated to intratesticular testosterone (ITT) required for the testicles to make sperm, so testing for this hormone could not only save time while optimizing HCG dose/frequency but also eliminate the need to perform testicular aspirations, a very difficult procedure to do. Sperm count does not stabilize until 6-8 weeks after starting hCG plus TRT, so knowing your 17OH-progesterone blood level can give you a quick way to determine if your hCG dose and frequency is adequate before your first follow-up semen analysis after 8 weeks.

The Rheumatoid Arthritis Factor is often evaluated in patients suspected of having any form of arthritis or destructive articular disease even though positive results can be due to other causes, and negative results do not rule out disease. But, in combination with signs and symptoms, it can play a role in both diagnosis and disease prognosis. It is part of the usual disease criteria of rheumatoid arthritis.

THIS IS THE MOST AFFORDABLE TESTOSTERONE TEST IN THE U.S. The most accurate way to measure total testosterone is with liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. This panel also shows free testosterone percent by equilibrium dialysis and free testosterone calculated from percent free T. This test is more accurate for low and high testosterone blood levels (for men who expect high testosterone blood levels over 1,500 ng/dL, women, and children who usually have low T levels). It has no interferences with supplements or anabolics. Note: Results may take 5-7 business days. For a faster turnaround, choose this test instead: Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable and Total (With Lower & Upper Limit) plus SHBG

This hormone panel for men on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) contains upstream and downstream hormones to testosterone.  TRT has been shown to decrease upstream hormones like pregnenolone and progesterone, and slightly decrease DHEA. Downstream hormone metabolites like ultrasensitive estradiol and DHT are also included.  Lastly, prolactin is added since high prolactin can decrease sexual function.  No LH and FSH were included since TRT shuts them down.

This lab test panel includes main blood test makers involved in hair loss in women and men: Complete Blood Count (CBC)- Can detect potential low hemoglobin and infections that can lead to hair loss. Ferritin- Low ferritin, an iron storage protein, has been linked to hair loss and slow down of hair growth. Iron and Total Iron Capacity (TIBC)- Low iron anemia has been linked to hair loss.  Hyperandrogenism: Excessive male hormones (androgens): Total Testosterone (LC/MS), Free Testosterone (Equilibrium Ultrafiltration), DHEA-S, Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)  Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism: Thyroid Stimulation Hormone (TSH), Free Triidothyronine (Free T3)

This PCOS lab test panel includes: Lipid Panel, CBC, CMP, Prolactin, C-Peptide,TSH, Free T3, Fee T4, Sex Hormone binding Globulin, DHEA Sulfate, Estrogen, FSH,Insulin Fasting, A1c, LH, Progesterone, 17-OH Progesterone,Testosterone, Total (LC/MS) and Free (EquilibriumvDialysis), and Vitamin D.

Polycystic literally means "many cysts." In medical terms, it usually refers to a condition called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a hormonal disorder commonly seen in women of childbearing age. The condition is characterized by the presence of multiple fluid-filled cysts in the ovaries. PCOS can cause symptoms like irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and excessive hair growth. Women with PCOS may also experience infertility, diabetes, and heart disease later in life. The exact cause of PCOS is not known, but genetics and insulin resistance are considered contributing factors. PCOS is diagnosed based on symptoms, physical examination, and blood tests. 

This panel includes: Total and Free Testosterone (LC/MS), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) at substantial savings that buying each test separately.

THIS IS THE MOST AFFORDABLE AND ACCURATE ESTRADIOL TEST IN THE U.S. This ultrasensitive estradiol test is based on liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS), an assay technology that has been shown to more accurately measure estradiol in men and women than the old immunoassay-based test. 

Important note:  The blood sample is sent out to Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute San Juan Capistrano, Caifornia.  Overnight delivery and testing is performed on Sunday and Friday.  Reports are available within 5-7 business days from the time the specimen is collected.

FSH and LH are produced by the pituitary gland to control the production of sex hormones including testosterone and estrogen, and sperm and egg cells. They are both important in diagnosing primary or secondary hypogonadism, infertility, or potential pituitary adenomas.

Estrone (E1) is one of the three estrogens, which also include estriol and estradiol. Estrone is the least abundant of the three and is considered a pro-hormone of estradiol.

 A prolactin blood test is used by doctors to evaluate sexual dysfunction or very low testosterone blood levels of unknown causes in both men and women.

The adrenal gland produces a hormone known as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). It is also made in the brain. DHEA leads to the production of androgens and estrogens (male and female sex hormones). DHEA levels in the body begin to decrease after age 30. Lower DHEA levels are found in people with hormonal disorders, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, depression, diabetes, inflammation, immune disorders, and osteoporosis. Corticosteroids, birth control taken by mouth, and agents that treat psychiatric disorders may reduce DHEA levels.

This panel includes comprehensive testing of the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in addition to free thyroxine (T4) and free triiodothyronine (T3). This thyroid panel offers a lower cost than buying each hormone separately.  If you take biotin, please wait at least 8 hours to get blood drawn. A study found that TSH was suppressed in all subjects after food, so fasting may be suggested although it is not reqired by Quest. Free T4 and Free T4 values did not change significantly after eating.

The serum iron test measures the amount of iron in your blood. The total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) test looks at how well the iron moves through your body.

Ferritin is a protein that stores iron. Red blood cells need iron to form normally and carry oxygen around your body. Low levels of ferritin lead to iron deficiency anemia, which means you have too few red blood cells. High levels of ferritin can damage your joints, heart, liver, and pancreas.

This PCT after cycle panel is designed to measure the health and recovery of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis (HPTA) after attempting to normalize it spontaneously or with the use of Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT) . PCT is prescribed by some physicians for men who stop testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) or other androgens. Fasting is required for CMP (glucose test).

This panel includes comprehensive testing of the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in addition to free thyroxine (T4) and free triiodothyronine (T3).

This fertility panel for women contains the main hormones tested (most using the most sensitive liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry) by reproductive endocrinologists to assess the potential for a woman to become pregnant.  Tests included are: LH, FSH, Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), estradiol (LC/MS), progesterone (LC/MS), TSH and testosterone (LC/MS).

This diabetes panel includes important tests usually prescribed for anyone living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. It includes A1c, CMP, Urinialysis, Insulin, and Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT).

Discounted Labs’ basic adrenal insufficiency panel includes cortisol, ACTH, and DHEA as a starting point. Depending on lab test results from this panel, physicians may choose to do an ACTH stimulation test, renin, potassium, and sodium. Imaging studies like a CT scan of the adrenal glands may also be considered to check for adrenal growths. In order to check for Addison's Disease, the auto-immune type of primary adrenal insufficiency, labs should be drawn to check 21-hydroxylase 

Tests included are:

Complete Blood Count with Differential (CBC)
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Hemoglobin A1c
Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel
Urinalysis, Complete
TSH
Thyroid Free T3
Thyroid Free T4
Reverse T3
TPO Antibodies
Thyroglobulin Antibodies
Homocysteine
Cardio C-Reactive Protein
CPK
Estradiol, Ultra Sensitive
Testosterone Total & Free (LC/MS- No upper limit)
DHEA – S
Prolactin
DHT
IGF-1
Progesterone
Estrone
Total Estrogens
LH + FSH
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)
Vitamin D (25OHD)
Vitamin B-12
Folate
Ferritin
Iron & TIBC (Total Iron Binding Capacity)

Allergy Mold Panel, Complete -

This panel tests for specific IgE antibodies to 6 molds that are commonly associated with allergies. Allergen-specific serum IgE testing is considered comparable to skin testing and may be preferred in some clinical situations. However, a positive test result only indicates that a patient is sensitized to the allergen of concern. Many IgE-sensitized individuals do not develop any symptoms when exposed to the allergen. Only a qualified medical professional who has conducted a thorough clinical evaluation should make an allergy diagnosis. These are the 6 molds tested:

Alternaria alternata (m6)

Alternaria is one of the most common outdoor molds and a frequent cause of mold allergies. When Alternaria spores are inhaled, they can trigger an allergic response in susceptible individuals. This can lead to symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and asthma exacerbations.1

Aspergillus fumigatus (m3)

Aspergillus is a genus of molds that can cause both allergic reactions and infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems. Aspergillus fumigatus is a common indoor mold that can trigger allergic rhinitis, asthma, and a rare condition called allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA).2

Cladosporium herbarum (m2)

Cladosporium is one of the most common outdoor molds and a frequent cause of mold allergies. When breathed in by sensitive people, Cladosporium spores can cause allergic reactions like sneezing, nasal congestion, and asthma symptoms. 1

Mucor racemosus (m4)

Mucor is a genus of molds that can cause allergic reactions in some people. Inhaling Mucor spores may lead to symptoms like nasal congestion, sneezing, and asthma exacerbations in those with a Mucor allergy.

Penicillium notatum (m1)

Penicillium is a common indoor mold that can cause allergic reactions. When Penicillium spores are inhaled, they may trigger symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and asthma in individuals with a Penicillium allergy.1

Stemphylium botryosum (m10)

Stemphylium is a genus of molds that can be an allergen for some people. Inhaling Stemphylium spores may lead to allergic rhinitis symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy/watery eyes in those with a Stemphylium allergy.In conclusion, when sensitive people inhale the spores from these common mold species, they can all cause allergic reactions. The allergic symptoms typically include nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and asthma exacerbations. Avoiding exposure to these molds is key for managing mold allergies.12

This is the most accurate progesterone test that has no potential interactions and can detect very low levels in men and women.  Since it is performed with liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, results are available after 5 to 7 business days.

Comprehensive and All-Inclusive Lab Test Panel for clients of The Wellness By Design Project.  The panel includes:  Testosterone Free with Total, Estrogens Total, Estrone, Estradiol, DHEA-S, Progesterone, Pregnenolone, Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), FSH/LH, Cortisol, Prolactin, TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3, Anti TPO, AntiTG, C-reactive protein (high sensitivity), Homocysteine, Apolipoprotein B, Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), Insulin, Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG), Vitamin D 25-hydroxy, Complete Metabolic Panel, Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT), Lipid Profile, Complete Blood Count (CBC), Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), Magnesium (serum), Phosphorus (serum), LDH, Uric Acid, Iron Serum, Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC), Iron Saturation, Ferritin, and Fibrinogen activity.