Androstenedione, Serum
Use
The test for androstenedione is primarily used in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of hyperandrogenism, congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), and premature adrenarche. It is intended to be used in conjunction with the measurement of other sex steroids and androgenic precursors such as testosterone, 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone (OHPG), 17 alpha-hydroxypregnenolone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH), among others. The test helps monitor CAH treatment by evaluating androgen levels, which can guide therapeutic modifications. Elevated levels of androstenedione may indicate increased androgen production from adrenal or gonadal sources, and pronounced elevations can suggest the presence of androgen-secreting tumors.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
The diagnostic utility of the androstenedione test can be limited in conditions of partial or complete adrenal or gonadal failure, where levels may be low. Androstenedione supplements can result in elevated serum levels, potentially confounding the interpretation. Drug-induced changes in androstenedione levels are possible but usually not significant enough to cause diagnostic confusion. However, how these changes relate to established normal ranges is often unclear.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
Androstenedione
Analyte
LOINC Codes
- 1854-9 - Androst SerPl-mCnc
- 1854-9 - Androst SerPl-mCnc
Result Turnaround Time
2-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.6 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Container
Red top (serum gel/SST are not acceptable)
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, Gross lipemia
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |