Androstenedione
Understanding Androstenedione
What is Androstenedione?
The Androstenedione test is a blood test that measures the level of androstenedione (A4), a hormone primarily produced by the adrenal gland and the gonads (testes in males and ovaries in females). This test is commonly used to evaluate hormone imbalances and useful in diagnosing disorders of the adrenal glands, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), congenital adrenal hyperplasia, etc. The test may be ordered when an individual exhibits symptoms such as excessive facial or hair growth, irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, acne, mood swings or signs of adrenal gland dysfunction. Getting tested provides doctors with a clearer view of underlying hormonal issues, allowing for more accurate diagnosis and the development of tailored treatment plans to address specific hormonal imbalances and related conditions.
What does Androstenedione measure?
The Androstenedione test measures the levels of androstenedione, a steroid hormone that plays a crucial role in the body’s endocrine system. Produced primarily by the adrenal glands and the gonads (testes in males and ovaries in females), androstenedione acts as a precursor to both testosterone and estrogen. This makes it a vital marker for evaluating hormonal balance and identifying potential disruptions. Elevated or decreased levels of androstenedione can signal a variety of health issues, such as adrenal gland disorders, including adrenal tumors or congenital adrenal hyperplasia, as well as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). By measuring androstenedione levels in the blood, doctors can gain important insights into the functioning of the endocrine system, diagnose underlying hormonal disorders, and develop targeted treatment plans to address specific hormonal imbalances and related conditions.
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