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Understanding Your Medical Test: What It Is, How It Is Performed, and How to Prepare

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 10, 2026

This test measures androstenedione levels in your blood after a stimulation challenge to evaluate how well your adrenal glands and hormone-producing glands are working.

Quick summary

{"Androstenedione is a hormone your body uses to make testosterone and estrogen","This test involves a challenge (stimulation) followed by blood samples to check hormone response","It helps diagnose conditions like adrenal disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or hormone imbalances","The test typically requires fasting and careful timing of blood collection","Results help your doctor understand if your hormone-producing glands are functioning normally"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 10, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43603-0
Short code
ANDRO-POST
Synonyms
Androst sp1 p chal SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top serum separator tube (SST) or plain red-top tube; plasma may be collected in heparinized or EDTA tubes
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–99 years
Method
Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) or Immunoassay
CPT
82157
SNOMED
10320007
Specimen volume
1-2 mL of serum or plasma
Stability
Serum/plasma stable at room temperature for 8 hours; refrigerated (2-8°C) for 7 days; frozen at -20°C or below for up to 6 months
Hemolysis max
100
Lipemia max
100
Icterus max
50
TAT
24–168 hours
Order
routine

What is this test and why might my healthcare provider recommend it for me?

The Androstenedione Challenge Test measures the level of androstenedione in your blood after your body is stimulated with a specific challenge (usually a hormone or medication). Androstenedione is a steroid hormone produced by your adrenal glands, ovaries (in women), and testes (in men). It serves as a building block for other important hormones like testosterone and estrogen. By measuring how your body responds to the challenge, doctors can assess how well your hormone-producing glands are functioning.

How is this test performed, and what steps are involved during the procedure?

The test typically involves several steps: First, a baseline blood sample is taken before the challenge. Then, you will be given a stimulating agent (such as ACTH or hCG, depending on what your doctor is testing for). After a specific time period (usually 30-60 minutes), another blood sample is collected to measure how your androstenedione levels have changed. The number of samples and timing may vary based on your specific medical situation. Your healthcare provider will give you detailed instructions before the test.

How should I prepare for this test, and are there any special instructions to follow beforehand?

Preparation may include: fasting (not eating or drinking except water) for 8-12 hours before the test, avoiding certain medications that might affect hormone levels as instructed by your doctor, informing your doctor about all medications you are taking, avoiding strenuous exercise before the test, and following specific timing instructions. Women may need to schedule the test at a specific point in their menstrual cycle. Your doctor will provide specific instructions tailored to your situation.

What will I feel during the test, and is the procedure likely to cause any pain or discomfort?

You may feel a brief pinch when the needle is inserted to draw blood. The challenge medication may cause temporary effects such as flushing, mild headache, or a rapid heartbeat. These sensations are usually mild and temporary. If you have any concerns or feel unwell during the test, inform the healthcare staff immediately. The procedure is generally safe, and serious complications are rare.

Reference range

Reference ranges vary by laboratory, age, sex, and pubertal stage. Androstenedione levels are typically higher in females than males and vary throughout the menstrual cycle. Post-challenge (post-stimulation) values are interpreted in comparison to baseline.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special patient preparation is typically required. However, for women of reproductive age, specimen collection timing relative to menstrual cycle should be documented. Diurnal variation exists with peak levels in the morning.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test helps diagnose and evaluate several conditions: adrenal insufficiency (when adrenal glands don't produce enough hormones), adrenal hyperplasia (overgrowth of adrenal tissue), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), certain tumors that produce hormones, and infertility issues related to hormone imbalances. The challenge test helps distinguish between different types of hormone disorders by showing how your glands respond to stimulation. Results are interpreted along with other hormone tests and your clinical symptoms to reach an accurate diagnosis.

Abnormal results may indicate overproduction or underproduction of androstenedione. High levels might suggest conditions like congenital adrenal hyperplasia, PCOS, or adrenal tumors. Low levels might indicate adrenal insufficiency or pituitary problems. Your doctor will interpret your results in the context of your overall health, symptoms, and other test findings to determine the appropriate next steps.

Frequently asked questions

Why do I need a challenge test instead of a regular blood test?
A challenge test shows how your glands respond to stimulation, which provides more information than a static hormone level. It helps doctors determine if your hormone-producing glands can respond appropriately to stress or demand, which is important for diagnosing certain disorders that might not be apparent at baseline hormone levels.
How long does the entire test take?
The test typically takes 1-2 hours from the initial blood draw through the final sample collection. This includes time for the challenge medication to take effect and for blood collection at the appropriate intervals. Your healthcare provider will give you a more precise time estimate.
Are there any risks or side effects?
Risks are minimal but may include bruising, bleeding, or infection at the injection site. The challenge medication may cause temporary symptoms like flushing, headache, nausea, or palpitations. Serious allergic reactions are rare. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience unusual or severe symptoms.
When will I get my results?
Results usually take a few days to a week, as the samples need specialized laboratory analysis. Your doctor's office will contact you with results and discuss what they mean for your health.
Do I need to stop my regular medications before this test?
Some medications can affect hormone levels and test results. Always inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Your doctor will tell you which medications to continue or stop before the test. Never stop prescribed medications without consulting your healthcare provider.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - HormonesSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - AndrostenedioneSource
  3. 3
    Lab Tests Online - AndrostenedioneSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy