Description
Why It’s Done
The test is used to evaluate hormonal imbalances and diagnose conditions related to abnormal androgen production. It may be recommended for:
In women:
• Signs of excess male hormones (androgens) such as:
o Excessive hair growth (hirsutism)
o Irregular or absent menstrual periods
o Acne
o Deepening of the voice
• Suspected Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Adrenal tumors or ovarian tumors
In children:
• Early or delayed puberty
• Ambiguous genitalia (at birth)
• Evaluation of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)
In men:
• Evaluation of testicular function
• Supportive test in infertility or hormone imbalance investigations
Preparation for the Test
• Fasting: Generally not required, but your doctor may advise otherwise in some cases.
• Timing: The test may be scheduled at a specific time in the menstrual cycle for women (typically early in the cycle) for accurate results.
• Medications: Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, or hormone therapies, as these can affect hormone levels.
• No special preparation is usually needed unless directed by your healthcare provider
