Sports Hormone Profile

The ALT test, also known as Alanine Aminotransferase test, is a blood test that helps to evaluate the health of your liver. The liver is an important organ that performs various functions in your body, such as filtering toxins, producing bile for digestion, and storing vitamins and minerals.

The ALT test measures the levels of an enzyme called alanine aminotransferase in your blood. When the liver is damaged or inflamed, it releases this enzyme into the bloodstream. Therefore, the ALT test can indicate if there is any liver damage or disease present.

High levels of ALT may suggest liver conditions like hepatitis (inflammation of the liver), cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), or fatty liver disease. It can also be a sign of certain medications or alcohol abuse affecting the liver.

Detecting abnormal ALT levels can help diagnose liver problems early on, allowing for timely treatment and prevention of further damage.

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Albumin is a test that measures the level of a protein called albumin in your blood. Albumin is an important protein that helps carry various substances, such as hormones, vitamins, and medications, throughout your body. This test is commonly used to assess the health of your liver and kidneys.

When your liver or kidneys are not functioning properly, the level of albumin in your blood may decrease. Low levels of albumin can indicate liver disease, kidney disease, malnutrition, or inflammation in the body. It can also be a sign of a chronic condition, such as diabetes or heart failure.

Measuring the albumin level can give valuable insights into your overall health and identify any underlying conditions that may need further evaluation or treatment. This test is usually performed as part of a routine check-up or if you are experiencing symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss.

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The Alkaline Phosphatase test is a blood test that measures the levels of an enzyme called alkaline phosphatase in your body. This enzyme is found in various tissues, such as the liver, bones, and intestines.

The test is usually ordered to help diagnose and monitor certain health conditions. For example, it can help detect liver or bone diseases, such as hepatitis or osteoporosis. It can also be used to check the effectiveness of treatment for these conditions.

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 This test measures the activity of aspartate transaminase (AST), an enzyme found primarily in the liver, heart, and skeletal muscle, to help diagnose and monitor liver damage or disease, heart injury, and muscle disorders.

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The Gamma GT test is a blood test that measures the levels of an enzyme called Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) in your body. This test is commonly used to check the health of your liver and to detect any potential liver damage or disease.

The liver is an important organ that helps filter out toxins and waste from your body. GGT is an enzyme that is mainly found in the liver, but it is also present in other organs like the pancreas and kidneys. When the liver is damaged or not functioning properly, the levels of GGT in the blood can increase.

By measuring the levels of GGT, doctors can get an idea of how well your liver is working. High levels of GGT may indicate liver problems such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or alcohol abuse. It can also be a sign of other health conditions like diabetes or heart disease.

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The Globulin test is a blood test that measures the levels of a specific type of protein called globulin in your body. Globulins are an important part of your immune system and help fight off infections and diseases. This test is usually done to check if your immune system is functioning properly and to diagnose certain medical conditions.

High levels of globulin may indicate an infection, chronic inflammation, or an autoimmune disorder. On the other hand, low levels of globulin may suggest a liver or kidney disease, malnutrition, or a problem with your immune system.

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The Bilirubin (Total) test is a blood test that measures the level of a substance called bilirubin in your body. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when red blood cells break down. This test is commonly used to check the health of your liver and to diagnose certain liver conditions.

When your liver is working properly, it helps remove bilirubin from your body. However, if your liver is not functioning well, it may not be able to process bilirubin effectively, leading to an increase in its levels. High levels of bilirubin can cause a yellowing of the skin and eyes, known as jaundice.

By measuring the amount of bilirubin in your blood, this test can help determine if your liver is functioning properly or if there may be an underlying liver problem.

Your doctor may order this test if you are experiencing symptoms such as yellowing of the skin, fatigue, or abdominal pain, or if they suspect a liver disorder.

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Total Protein is the total amount of two proteins found in the serum of the blood, these are albumin and globulin. Albumin is needed to keep fluid in the bloodstream whereas globulin is an essential part of the immune system. Total protein tests are used as an indicator to there being a problem with albumin or globulin levels.
 

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The DHEA Sulphate test measures the levels of a hormone called dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate in the blood. DHEA sulfate is produced by the adrenal glands and is a precursor to the production of male and female sex hormones.

This test is often used to evaluate adrenal function and to help diagnose conditions such as adrenal insufficiency, adrenal tumors, and certain hormonal imbalances. It can also be used to monitor treatment for these conditions and to assess fertility and certain types of cancer.

The test may be ordered if a person is experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, decreased libido, or abnormal hair growth, as these can be signs of an imbalance in DHEA sulfate levels. 

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Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a gonadotropin, a type of hormone produced by the pituitary gland, which plays a crucial role in the reproductive systems of both men and women.

In women, FSH is key to the menstrual cycle and fertility:

Ovarian Follicle Development: FSH stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles in the ovary before the release of an egg at ovulation.

Estradiol Production: The developing follicles produce estradiol, an estrogen, which is crucial for the reproductive cycle.

Menstrual Cycle Regulation: FSH levels vary throughout the menstrual cycle and are highest just before ovulation.

In men, FSH is essential for the production and health of sperm:

Sperm Production: FSH stimulates the Sertoli cells in the testes, which are crucial for spermatogenesis (the production of sperm).

Testicular Health: It helps maintain the size and health of the testes.

FSH levels are used as an important diagnostic tool in assessing fertility and reproductive health. In women, abnormal FSH levels can indicate issues such as ovarian failure, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or menopause. In men, abnormal levels can indicate problems with the testes or with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which can affect sperm production and overall fertility.

Monitoring FSH levels can provide valuable information in the evaluation and treatment of infertility, as well as in understanding other reproductive health issues.

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The Free Androgen Index measures the levels of certain hormones in your body. Specifically, it looks at the amount of androgens, which are male sex hormones like testosterone, that are not bound to proteins in your blood.

This test is important because androgens play a role in various bodily functions, including the development of male characteristics, maintaining muscle mass, and regulating sex drive. By measuring the levels of free androgens, doctors can assess if there is an imbalance or abnormality in your hormone levels.

The Free Androgen Index is often used to help diagnose conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can cause hormonal imbalances and affect fertility. It can also be used to evaluate and monitor the effectiveness of hormone replacement therapy in transgender individuals.

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The Free Testosterone (calculated) test is a blood test that measures the amount of a hormone called free testosterone in your body. Testosterone is a hormone that is mainly produced in the testicles in men and in the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. It plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including the development of male characteristics, maintaining muscle mass, and regulating sex drive.

The test specifically measures the amount of free testosterone, which is the testosterone that is not bound to proteins in the blood. This is important because only the free testosterone is available to be used by the body's cells. By measuring the levels of free testosterone, doctors can assess if there is an imbalance or deficiency in this hormone.

This test is commonly used to diagnose conditions such as low testosterone levels in men, which can cause symptoms like fatigue, decreased sex drive, and mood changes.

In women, it can help identify hormonal imbalances that may be causing irregular periods or fertility issues. Additionally, this test can be used to monitor the effectiveness of hormone replacement therapy or to evaluate certain medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome.

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Luteinising Hormone (LH) is a hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland in the brain. It plays a vital role in sexual development and functioning for both men and women.

In women, LH is essential for regulating the menstrual cycle. It triggers ovulation, the process where an egg is released from the ovary. This hormone's levels fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle, peaking just before ovulation. In men, LH stimulates the production of testosterone by the testes. Testosterone is crucial for sperm production and maintaining male reproductive health.

Testing for LH levels can be important for several reasons:

Assessing Fertility: In women, LH testing is often used to determine the timing of ovulation for those trying to conceive. For men, an LH test can help evaluate the function of the testes and testosterone production, which is important for understanding fertility issues.

Diagnosing Menstrual Irregularities: Abnormal LH levels can be a cause of irregular or absent menstrual cycles, which is an important diagnostic factor in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or amenorrhea (absence of menstruation).

Evaluating Pituitary Function: Since LH is produced by the pituitary gland, abnormal levels can indicate issues with pituitary function. This might be relevant in the diagnosis of pituitary disorders.

Monitoring Hormone Replacement Therapy: LH levels can be checked to monitor the effectiveness of hormone replacement therapy, particularly in the context of menopausal symptoms or hypogonadism in men.

Understanding Early or Delayed Puberty: In children, abnormal levels of LH can be a sign of either early (precocious) or delayed puberty, helping guide further investigation and management.

An LH test is a valuable tool in understanding reproductive health, diagnosing and managing disorders of the reproductive system, and monitoring treatments related to hormonal issues.

The effects of LH levels on men can be understood in a few key aspects:

Testosterone Production: LH stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone. Testosterone is crucial for many aspects of male health, including sexual development, libido, muscle mass, bone density, and mood regulation. Abnormally low or high LH levels can lead to imbalances in testosterone production.

Fertility: LH is also important for spermatogenesis, the process of sperm production. It works in conjunction with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to ensure the proper development and function of the testes. Altered LH levels can impact sperm production and quality, affecting fertility.

Pubertal Development: During puberty, increased levels of LH trigger the development of secondary sexual characteristics in boys, such as increased muscle mass, body hair, and changes in voice. Abnormal LH levels during this time can lead to issues with pubertal development, such as delayed or incomplete puberty.

Bone Health: Since LH influences testosterone levels, and testosterone is essential for bone health, imbalances in LH can indirectly affect bone density. Low testosterone levels can increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

Psychological and Cognitive Effects: Testosterone, regulated by LH, can impact mood and cognitive function. Imbalances in LH and consequently in testosterone levels might contribute to mood disorders, changes in libido, and cognitive difficulties.

Metabolic Effects: Testosterone, influenced by LH levels, also plays a role in metabolism, body composition, and fat distribution. Imbalances can lead to metabolic issues, changes in body composition, and increased risk of obesity and related conditions.

Abnormally high or low levels of LH can indicate various health issues, including hypogonadism, pituitary gland disorders, or issues with the testes. Therefore, maintaining a balance in LH levels is important for overall health and well-being in men.

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Oestradiol is a form of oestrogen, which is a female sex hormone. It plays a crucial role in the development and functioning of female reproductive tissues, such as the breasts, ovaries, and uterus. Oestradiol is also important in regulating the menstrual cycle and reproductive system.

In addition to its role in the reproductive system, oestradiol has other significant functions. It helps maintain bone density, supports cardiovascular health, and influences mood and cognitive function. The hormone is produced primarily in the ovaries in premenopausal women and is also produced in smaller amounts by other tissues such as the adrenal glands, fat tissues, and the brain, both in women and in men.

Levels of oestradiol vary throughout a woman's life, being highest during the reproductive years and dropping significantly after menopause.

Testing oestradiol levels can be important for various reasons, such as evaluating fertility, understanding the causes of menstrual irregularities, assessing menopausal status, or monitoring hormone replacement therapy.

Low levels can lead to symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and osteoporosis, while unusually high levels may indicate conditions like ovarian tumors or estrogen dominance.

Oestradiol, although typically associated with women, also plays important roles in men's health. In men, oestradiol is produced mainly by the conversion of testosterone through the action of an enzyme called aromatase, which is present in fat tissues, the brain, testes, and other tissues.

The functions of oestradiol in men include bone health, fertility, brain function, cardiovascular health, fat metabolism and muscle health.

While high levels of oestradiol in men can lead to problems such as gynecomastia (development of breast tissue), erectile dysfunction, and infertility, very low levels are also problematic, as they can increase the risk of osteoporosis and other health issues. Therefore, maintaining a balance of oestradiol is important for overall health in men.

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Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a crucial role in lactation and reproductive function. 

There are several reasons why a woman or man may be tested for prolactin. Some of the most common reasons include:

Women:

• To diagnose and monitor conditions related to menstrual irregularities, such as amenorrhea (absence of periods) or oligomenorrhea (infrequent periods)
• To evaluate infertility or recurrent miscarriage
• To diagnose and monitor conditions related to lactation problems, such as insufficient milk production or galactorrhea (abnormal breast milk production)
• To diagnose and monitor pituitary tumors, which can cause excessive prolactin production (prolactinoma)

Men:

• To diagnose and monitor conditions related to low testosterone levels, such as hypogonadism (underactive testes)
• To diagnose and monitor pituitary tumors, which can cause excessive prolactin production (prolactinoma)

While the prolactin test is primarily used to diagnose and monitor conditions related to prolactin production, the reasons for testing may vary depending on the age and sex of the patient. Some differences include:

Women:

• Women are more likely to be tested for prolactin to diagnose and monitor conditions related to menstrual irregularities and lactation problems.
• Women may also be tested for prolactin to evaluate infertility or recurrent miscarriage.

Men:

• Men are more likely to be tested for prolactin to diagnose and monitor conditions related to low testosterone levels.
• Men may also be tested for prolactin to diagnose and monitor pituitary tumors.

Children:

• Children may be tested for prolactin to diagnose and monitor conditions related to early puberty or delayed puberty.
• Children may also be tested for prolactin to diagnose and monitor pituitary tumors.

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Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) is a laboratory test that measures the level of SHBG in the blood. SHBG is a protein produced by the liver that binds to sex hormones, such as testosterone and estrogen, in the bloodstream.

This test is usually done to evaluate and monitor hormone-related conditions. It can help in diagnosing and managing various conditions, including:

Hormonal imbalances: SHBG levels can be used to assess the balance of sex hormones in the body. High levels of SHBG may indicate a deficiency of sex hormones, while low levels may suggest an excess.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a common hormonal disorder in women. SHBG levels can be used to evaluate the hormonal profile and monitor the response to treatment.

Hypogonadism: This condition refers to low levels of sex hormones in both men and women. SHBG levels can help determine the cause and guide treatment.

Hyperandrogenism: This condition is characterized by excessive production of androgens (male hormones) in women. SHBG levels can help assess the severity and guide treatment.

Liver disease: SHBG is primarily produced by the liver. Abnormal SHBG levels can indicate liver dysfunction or disease.

Monitoring hormone replacement therapy: SHBG levels can be used to monitor the effectiveness of hormone replacement therapy in individuals receiving treatment for hormonal deficiencies.

It is important to note that the interpretation of SHBG levels should be done in conjunction with other hormone tests and clinical evaluation to get a comprehensive understanding of your hormonal status.

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Testosterone is an important sex hormone for both men and women. In men, it is made in the testicles. In women, it is made in small amounts in the ovaries.  

It is important for normal male sexual development. During puberty (in the teen years), testosterone helps boys develop male features like body and facial hair, a deeper voice, and muscle strength. Too much testosterone in men can cause shrinking of the testicles, impotence, an increased risk of heart attack and prostate enlargement with difficulty urinating. Too little can cause fatigue, irritability, depression, erectile dysfunction and reduced muscle mass. 

Combined with oestrogen, testosterone helps with the growth, maintenance, and repair of a woman's reproductive tissues and bone mass. Too much can cause acne, excess hair on the face and body, irregular periods and mood changes. Too little can cause low libido and weight gain. 

The optimal time to take a sample when testing for testosterone is between 7am - 10am.

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The Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) test measures the level of TSH in your body. TSH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that helps regulate the thyroid gland, which is responsible for controlling your metabolism.

This test is used to diagnose thyroid problems, such as hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid).

Symptoms of thyroid problems can include fatigue, weight gain or loss, hair loss, and changes in mood or energy levels.

If your TSH levels are too high or too low, it can indicate a problem with your thyroid gland.

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