Description
Androgens (testosterone) are steroid sex hormones produced by the gonads (testes in men and ovaries in women). In both sexes, androgen synthesis can occur in the cells of the zona reticularis of the adrenal cortex. They are responsible for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics and virilization when present in excess in women or when their conversion to estrogens is impaired.
Glucocorticoids (cortisol (hydrocortisone)) are steroid hormones produced by the zona fasciculata of the adrenal cortex from progesterone and 17-OH-progesterone. They have a potent anti-inflammatory effect, enhance protein catabolism, influence carbohydrate metabolism by promoting increased blood glucose levels through stimulation of gluconeogenesis. They stimulate lipolysis processes and fat mass redistribution, contributing to the development of abdominal obesity against the background of chronic stress. They possess potent anti-inflammatory action.
Estrogens (estradiol) are steroid sex hormones predominating in the female organism. In women, they are synthesized by the follicular apparatus of the ovaries; in men, mainly by the testes (up to 20%). In women, estrogens ensure the normal development and functioning of the reproductive system, and in men, they participate in the regulation of prostate and testicular functions. They are represented by three forms – estrone (folliculin) – E1, estradiol – E2, and estriol – E3, having different physiological activity (E2 ˃ E3 ˃ E1).
Progestogens (progesterone) are steroid sex hormones produced in women by the corpus luteum of the ovaries, the placenta, and partially by the adrenal cortex. In women, they ensure the possibility of conception and maintenance of pregnancy by regulating the transition of the uterine mucous membrane from the proliferation phase to the secretory phase and promoting the formation of normal secretory endometrium in women. They possess antiestrogenic, antiandrogenic, and antigonadotropic properties. In men, progesterone is produced in small amounts by the adrenal cortex and testes as an intermediate product of testosterone and cortisol synthesis, and independently participates in the functioning of the central nervous system.
Reference values are provided for persons over 18 years of age.
The test is not performed on patients with bleeding gums. Biomaterial with traces of blood is not accepted.
For women, it is mandatory to indicate the day of the cycle, pregnancy, menopause, or postmenopause; otherwise, the biomaterial is not accepted.
Determined indicators:
Testosterone
Cortisol (hydrocortisone)
Estradiol
Progesterone
Period of execution
Within 4 days. The specified time does not include the day of biomaterial collection
Biomaterial type