What are the six items included in steroid hormone testing?
Mar 29, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
The six steroid hormone tests generally include steroid hormones, glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, estrogens, progestogens, and androgens. These six steroid hormones play important biological roles in the body, and even subtle changes or abnormalities can affect human health. Their secretion and balance are regulated by complex mechanisms. If steroid hormone-related issues are suspected,
Steroid hormone panel usually includes six items: steroid hormones, glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, estrogens, progestogens, and androgens. The details are as follows:
1. Steroid Hormones
Steroid hormones are a class of hormones synthesized from cholesterol and include adrenal corticosteroids and sex hormones. They have the ability to suppress inflammatory responses, thereby reducing inflammation-related redness, swelling, pain, and tissue damage.
2. Glucocorticoids
Glucocorticoids are steroid hormones secreted by the adrenal glands, including cortisol and corticosterone. They participate in various physiological processes such as immune response, glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, and stress response.
3. Mineralocorticoids
Mineralocorticoids are steroid hormones secreted by the adrenal cortex, with aldosterone being the most important. These hormones primarily regulate water and electrolyte balance, influencing the kidney's reabsorption and excretion of electrolytes such as sodium and chloride.
4. Estrogens
Estrogens are the primary female sex hormones and play multiple physiological roles in the female reproductive system and other tissues. They regulate the menstrual cycle, ovarian development, breast development, and bone health.
5. Progestogens
Progestogens are one of the major female sex hormones, with progesterone being the most important. They play crucial regulatory roles in the female reproductive system, including the ovarian cycle, pregnancy, preparation of the endometrium, and placental development.
6. Androgens
Androgens are the primary male sex hormones, with testosterone being the most important. They play key roles in the development of male secondary sexual characteristics, gonadal development, spermatogenesis, and muscle growth.
These six steroid hormones perform vital biological functions in the body, and even subtle changes or imbalances can significantly impact human health. Their secretion and balance are regulated by complex mechanisms. If you suspect any issues related to steroid hormones, it is recommended to consult a physician or an endocrinology specialist for comprehensive evaluation and testing.
