What is the test for steroid hormone detection?
Steroid hormone testing is a method used to measure the levels of steroid hormones in the human body.
Steroid hormones are an important class of hormones, including both steroid and non-steroid types. Steroid hormones include adrenal corticosteroids, sex hormones, etc., while non-steroid hormones include cholesterol, bile acids, and hormone precursors, among others.
Steroid hormone testing is typically performed using samples such as blood, urine, or saliva. The specific testing methods and indicators vary depending on the clinical purpose. This testing helps physicians diagnose and monitor endocrine disorders such as adrenal insufficiency, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and gonadal insufficiency. It can also assess reproductive health in both men and women, such as testicular function in males and ovarian function in females. Additionally, it aids in evaluating bone metabolism, such as in osteoporosis, and liver function, including cholesterol metabolism.
Patients are advised to undergo blood tests for sex hormone levels after fasting, to avoid potential interference from exogenous hormones present in food that might affect test results.