Androstmsmtserpl

What is this test?

The androstenedione test measures the amount of androstenedione in your blood. Androstenedione is a steroid hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands in both men and women. In women, it is also produced by the ovaries, and in men by the testes. This hormone acts as a building block (precursor) for making testosterone and estrogen, the primary male and female sex hormones.

Why do I need this test?

Your doctor may order an androstenedione test if you have symptoms of hormonal imbalance, such as: excessive hair growth (hirsutism) on the face, chest, or back; irregular menstrual periods; acne; deepening of the voice; or unexplained weight gain. It helps doctors diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), adrenal gland disorders (such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia or adrenal tumors), or tumors of the ovaries or testes.

How is the test done?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. You may need to fast (not eat or drink anything except water) for several hours before the test, and your doctor may ask you to stop taking certain medications that could affect the results. For women, the test is sometimes performed at a specific point in the menstrual cycle as hormone levels naturally fluctuate.

What do the results mean?

Normal androstenedione levels vary based on age, sex, and the laboratory that performs the test. Elevated levels may indicate conditions such as PCOS, adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal tumors, or ovarian tumors. Low levels may suggest adrenal insufficiency or other adrenal disorders. Your doctor will interpret your results along with other hormone tests (such as testosterone, DHEA-S, and estrogen) to make an accurate diagnosis.