Androstenedione is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, ovaries, and testes.
Androstenedione is a key steroid hormone involved in producing sex hormones. It can convert into testosterone or estrogen depending on the body's needs, making it an essential component of hormonal balance. In women, androstenedione is primarily produced by the adrenal glands and ovaries, while in men, it is mostly produced by the testes and adrenal glands.
This test is important for evaluating hormonal balance and diagnosing conditions that might lead to either elevated or reduced levels of androstenedione. Here’s when it’s commonly used:
Evaluating Androgen Levels in Females: High androstenedione levels in females can result in symptoms like irregular periods, acne, excessive body hair, and, in some cases, infertility.
Assessing Adrenal Gland Function: Since the adrenal glands produce androstenedione, this test helps assess adrenal gland function and detect conditions like congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) or adrenal tumors.
Diagnosing PCOS: Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often have elevated androgen levels, including androstenedione, contributing to symptoms like hirsutism (excessive body hair) and irregular cycles.
Monitoring Androgen-Producing Tumors: Androstenedione levels are monitored in cases where tumors that produce androgens might be suspected.
Normal Range in Females: 30-200 ng/dL (nanograms per deciliter), but ranges can vary by lab.
Normal Range in Males: 40-150 ng/dL.
High levels can indicate disorders like PCOS, adrenal hyperplasia, or tumors in the adrenal or ovarian glands, while low levels might indicate adrenal insufficiency or pituitary disorders.
In women, androstenedione is significant for maintaining hormonal balance and facilitating the body’s conversion into estrogen. Elevated androstenedione in females can disrupt menstrual cycles, cause unwanted hair growth, and contribute to conditions like PCOS. Understanding androstenedione to testosterone conversion is also crucial in females, as an imbalance may lead to symptoms like deepening of the voice and increased body hair.
While androstenedione serves as a precursor to testosterone, methyltestosterone is a synthetic form of testosterone used in medical treatments. Methyltestosterone can have side effects if overused, including acne, fluid retention, liver toxicity, and increased risk of cardiovascular issues.
Excess androstenedione can lead to androgenic side effects, such as:
Acne and oily skin
Increased body and facial hair
Irregular menstrual cycles in females
Possible infertility
Deepening of the voice (particularly in females with high androstenedione levels)
You should choose Diagnopein for your Androstenedione test because we are committed to providing high-quality diagnostic care in a clean and hygienic environment. Our center is equipped with advanced technology to ensure accurate and reliable test results, which are crucial for assessing this test. Diagnopein’s experienced staff is dedicated to handling tests with precision and care, offering you both expertise and comfort. We also offer affordable pricing, making essential health diagnostics accessible without compromising quality. For timely, professional, and affordable cardiac testing, Diagnopein is your trusted partner for your healthcare.
In some cases, weight management and a balanced diet can help regulate hormonal levels, though underlying conditions often require medical treatment.
Symptoms include acne, irregular periods in females, increased body or facial hair, and other signs of excess androgens.
Normal ranges are approximately 30-200 ng/dL for females and 40-150 ng/dL for males. However, these ranges can vary by laboratory.
A blood sample is drawn, usually from a vein in the arm, and processed to measure androstenedione levels.
High androstenedione levels can indicate adrenal or ovarian disorders, PCOS, or androgen-producing tumors. It’s best evaluated by an endocrinologist.
Results are typically available within a few days. Diagnopein aims for quick turnaround times for timely follow-up.
