Androstenedione0196
Androstenedione is a steroid hormone, a precursor of the sex hormones testosterone and estrone, synthesized in Leydig cells of the testes, theca cells of the ovaries, and also in small amounts in the adrenal cortex's reticular zone. Further conversion of androstenedione to testosterone occurs in peripheral tissues, but this is minimal in women. Androstenedione is converted into estrogens mainly in the ovaries, as well as in adipose tissue. Normally, it has weak androgenic properties but significantly increases during the development of "virilizing" syndromes. In postmenopause, it is the main steroid hormone in women and plays an important role in the metabolism of patients with low testosterone levels, such as prepubertal boys.
LCMS (liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry) – quantitative determination.
- Diagnosis of virilizing syndromes:
- polycystic ovary syndrome;
- Cushing's syndrome;
- congenital adrenal hyperplasia;
- androgen-producing tumors of the ovaries, testes, or adrenal adenomas/carcinomas.
- Monitoring treatment of the mentioned syndromes.
Blood sampling in the morning (optimal time 8:00–11:30) on an empty stomach (drinking plain still water is allowed) 12 hours after the last meal. Do not smoke for 3 hours before the test. Avoid physical and emotional stress, alcohol, caffeine, and sexual activity for 72 hours before providing the biological sample. Women are recommended to take the test on days 3–5 of the menstrual cycle (beginning of the follicular phase), unless otherwise advised by a doctor. Discontinue hormonal medications only with a doctor's approval.
Androstenedione is an important hormonal marker of hyperandrogenism. Since it is synthesized both in the adrenal glands and ovaries, the test is not used for differential diagnosis of the causes of virilizing syndromes but is important for assessing hormonal status and monitoring treatment.