Short Description

This assay is useful in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of Hyperandrogenism. It is a crucial sex steroid precursor. In conjunction with other androgenic precursors, it is used in the diagnosis / monitoring of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia. It is also useful in diagnosis of Premature adrenarche. Androstenedione response to ACTH may be useful in the differential diagnosis of androgen excess in women.

PreTest Information

Overnight fasting is mandatory. Synthetic ACTH (Synacthen) is not supplied by LPL.

Detail Description

ANDROSTENEDIONE STIMULATION BY ACTH Test: Cost, Symptoms & Diagnosis

Androstenedione is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland and the ovaries in females. It plays a crucial role in the production of testosterone, estrogen, and other hormones. The Androstenedione Stimulation by ACTH Test is a medical procedure used to measure the level of Androstenedione in the body.

The ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It stimulates the adrenal gland to produce several hormones, including Androstenedione. The Androstenedione Stimulation by ACTH Test is performed to evaluate the adrenal gland's ability to produce Androstenedione in response to the ACTH stimulus.

Symptoms

Androstenedione is a precursor to several hormones in the body, including testosterone and estrogen. Therefore, the symptoms of Androstenedione deficiency or excess can vary depending on the hormonal imbalance it causes. Some common symptoms of Androstenedione deficiency are:

• Decreased sex drive
• Fatigue and weakness
• Depression and irritability
• Decreased muscle mass
• Weight gain
• Irregular menstrual cycles in females

On the other hand, excess Androstenedione can cause the following symptoms:

• Acne and oily skin
• Increased body hair growth in females
• Irregular menstrual cycles in females
• Infertility
• Decreased breast size in females
• Enlarged clitoris in females

Diagnosis

The Androstenedione Stimulation by ACTH Test is used to diagnose the adrenal gland's ability to produce Androstenedione in response to the ACTH stimulus. The test involves measuring the Androstenedione level in the blood before and after an injection of synthetic ACTH. The test is performed in a hospital or medical laboratory.

The test is usually recommended by a doctor if the patient is exhibiting symptoms of hormonal imbalance or if a routine blood test reveals abnormal Androstenedione levels. The test can help diagnose conditions like adrenal insufficiency, polycystic ovary syndrome, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

Cost

The cost of the Androstenedione Stimulation by ACTH Test in India is approximately INR 5000. However, the cost may vary depending on the location and the hospital or laboratory where the test is performed.

Conclusion

The Androstenedione Stimulation by ACTH Test is a medical procedure used to evaluate the adrenal gland's ability to produce Androstenedione in response to the ACTH stimulus. The test is recommended if a patient is exhibiting symptoms of hormonal imbalance or if a routine blood test reveals abnormal Androstenedione levels. The test can help diagnose conditions like adrenal insufficiency, polycystic ovary syndrome, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia. The cost of the test in India is approximately INR 5000.

If you exhibit any of the symptoms mentioned above or have concerns regarding hormonal imbalance, it is recommended to consult a doctor or an endocrinologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

For more information on hormonal testing and diagnosis, visit DNA Labs India.