What is the purpose of this test?
The ZRT Lab's Male Blood Spot Profile II is a test designed to measure various hormones and biomarkers important for men's health using a small blood sample from a finger prick. This profile includes tests for hormones like testosterone, DHEA-S (a form of DHEA), and cortisol, which play crucial roles in energy levels, muscle strength, mood regulation, and overall well-being. By analyzing these markers, the test helps doctors assess hormone balance and identify potential health issues affecting men.
This test is essential because it provides insights into hormone levels that can impact men's reproductive health, metabolism, and cardiovascular health. Abnormal hormone levels can contribute to conditions such as low testosterone (hypogonadism), adrenal dysfunction, or stress-related disorders. The results from this profile guide doctors in diagnosing these conditions early and developing personalized treatment plans, which may include hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle adjustments, or other interventions to optimize health outcomes for men.
The Male Blood Spot Profile II - ZRT Test Kit includes the following:
- Estradiol (E2) - Estradiol (E2) is a hormone and the most active form of estrogen found in both men and women. It plays a crucial role in regulating reproductive functions, including the menstrual cycle, fertility, and development of secondary sexual characteristics.
- Testosterone (T) - Testosterone (T) is a hormone primarily produced in the testes in men and in smaller amounts in the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. It plays a key role in the development of male reproductive tissues and secondary sexual characteristics, such as muscle mass, bone density, and facial hair growth.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) - Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by cells in the prostate gland. It is primarily used as a biomarker to screen for prostate cancer and to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for prostate conditions.
- Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) - Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) is a protein produced by the liver that binds to sex hormones, such as testosterone and estrogen, in the bloodstream. It regulates the amount of these hormones that are available for use by cells throughout the body.
- DHEA-S (DS) - DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, and to a lesser extent, by the ovaries and testes. It serves as a precursor to other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen, and plays a role in regulating mood, energy levels, and overall well-being.
- Cortisol (C) - Cortisol (C) is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. It helps regulate various functions in the body, including metabolism, immune response, and the sleep-wake cycle.
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)—TSH, or thyroid-stimulating hormone, tells your thyroid gland to make more thyroid hormones, which are important for your body's energy and growth.
- Free T3 (fT3)—Free T3, or triiodothyronine, is the active form of a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that plays a crucial role in regulating your body's metabolism, energy levels, and overall growth and development. It is called "free" because it is not bound to proteins in the blood, making it available for the body's use.
- Free T4 (fT4)—Free T4, or free thyroxine, is a hormone made by the thyroid gland that helps control your body's metabolism and energy levels. It is called "free" because it is not attached to proteins in the blood, making it ready for the body to use.
- Thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOab)—TPOab, or thyroid peroxidase antibodies, are proteins that attack the thyroid gland, potentially causing thyroid problems like Hashimoto's disease.
Benefits of the Male Blood Spot Profile II - ZRT Test Kit:
- Comprehensive Hormone Assessment: Measures key hormones like testosterone, DHEA-S, and cortisol to assess overall health and vitality.
- Detects Hormone Imbalances: Helps identify imbalances that may affect energy levels, mood, and muscle strength.
- Early Detection: Facilitates early detection of conditions like hypogonadism (low testosterone) or adrenal dysfunction.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Guides personalized treatments such as hormone replacement therapy or lifestyle adjustments.
- Convenient Sampling: Uses a small blood spot sample from a finger prick for easy collection.
- Monitors Health Changes: Allows for ongoing monitoring of hormone levels to track progress and adjust treatments as needed.
Preparation:
No fasting is necessary. Collect your sample within one hour of waking up. Ship the specimen to the lab via overnight mail between Monday and Thursday only. Please carefully review patient instructions and choose the best day to start the test.
Test Results:
5-7 business days once the lab receives the specimen. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
