Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood (Morning collection is preferred 7am-10am)
- Fasting: No fasting is required. For the most consistent testosterone results, consider having your blood drawn in the morning, preferably between 7–10 AM. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding medications and supplements before testing.
- Turnaround: 4-7 business days. May take longer due to weather, holidays, or lab delays.
What's Included
DHEA-S
- DHEA Sulfate: An androgen produced mainly by the adrenal cortex, with smaller amounts from the testes. It can be converted into other hormones, including testosterone, and serves as a marker of adrenal function.
Testosterone, Total and Free
- Testosterone, Total, MS: Measures the total amount of testosterone circulating in the blood, most of which is bound to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) or albumin.
- Testosterone, Free (Direct): Measures the small, unbound portion of testosterone (typically under 2% of total testosterone) using a direct analog method.
Lab-specific note (LabCorp only): Any Testosterone Free (Direct) or Total Testosterone result exceeding 1500 will be reported as ">1500."
Thyroid-stimulating Hormone (TSH)
- TSH: Commonly used to help diagnose thyroid disorders, monitor thyroid replacement therapy, evaluate pituitary gland function, and screen for thyroid disorders.
Triiodothyronine (T3), Free
- Triiodothyronine (T3), Free: Measures the active, unbound form of T3, a thyroid hormone that regulates metabolism. Helps evaluate thyroid function, assess thyroid disease severity, and monitor treatment.
Free T4
- Thyroxine (T4) Free (Direct): Measures the active form of thyroxine, offering an accurate view of thyroid hormone function. Often ordered alongside TSH to evaluate the thyroid feedback system.
Estradiol
- Estradiol: A key estrogen fraction produced in men primarily by the testes and adrenal glands.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF-1)
- Insulin-Like Growth Factor I: Produced by the liver in response to growth hormone. Helpful for evaluating signs of insufficient or excess growth hormone production, including decreased bone density or muscle strength, or for monitoring growth hormone therapy.
Benefits
- Helps identify hormone imbalances across adrenal, thyroid, and reproductive systems.
- Supports monitoring of ongoing hormone therapy.
- Offers insight into thyroid function and metabolism.
- Provides a broad snapshot to support overall well-being.
- Convenient blood draw with no fasting required.
Who Is This Test For?
- Men wanting a broad look at their hormone levels.
- Men currently undergoing hormone therapy who want to monitor their levels.
- Men interested in tracking thyroid and adrenal-related hormone markers.
- Men who want insight into testosterone and estradiol levels.
- Men interested in general wellness and energy-related hormone tracking.
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this test?
This panel looks at hormones connected to adrenal, thyroid, and reproductive health. It includes DHEA-S, total and free testosterone, TSH, free T3, free T4, estradiol, and IGF-1 (with an accompanying Z Score). Together, these markers give a broader picture of how your hormone systems are working, rather than looking at any single hormone in isolation.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
This panel may be useful for men who want a general view of their hormone levels, including those related to adrenal function, thyroid activity, and testosterone. It can also be useful for men who are monitoring hormone therapy or who are interested in tracking markers connected to energy and overall well-being.
3. When should I order this panel?
You may consider ordering this panel as part of general hormone screening, to monitor hormone therapy, or as a follow-up to previous hormone testing. It can also be used simply to establish a baseline of where your levels currently stand.
4. Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required. You should stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to collection.
5. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 4-7 days, though this may take longer due to weather, holidays, or lab delays.
6. How do I interpret the results?
Patterns across multiple biomarkers are often more meaningful than any single result on its own. Reviewing your results alongside a healthcare provider can help put them into context based on your overall health picture.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
7. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
If any of your results fall outside the expected range, share them with your healthcare provider. They can help you understand what the results mean in the context of your health and whether any next steps are appropriate. Do not stop prescribed medication unless instructed by your healthcare provider.
8. How often should I get tested?
Testing frequency depends on your individual health goals and history. Follow up testing as directed by your healthcare provider, especially if you are monitoring hormone therapy or ongoing symptoms.
9. Why early detection matters
Tracking hormone levels over time may support earlier awareness of imbalances and can help you and your healthcare provider make more informed decisions about your health and any ongoing treatment.
Pre-test preparation
No fasting is required. For the most consistent testosterone results, consider having your blood drawn in the morning, preferably between 7–10 AM. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding medications and supplements before testing.
Do not stop prescribed medication unless instructed by your healthcare provider.
