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Cortisol, Total details
What Cortisol, Total shows
Cortisol, often called your primary 'stress hormone,' is produced by the adrenal glands and plays roles well beyond stress response, including regulating blood sugar, blood pressure, metabolism, and inflammation. It follows a natural daily rhythm, typically highest in the morning and lowest at night, so timing matters when interpreting results, and sometimes multiple samples are collected across the day. Consistently high cortisol can point toward Cushing's syndrome (from a pituitary or adrenal tumor, or long-term steroid medication use) and cause symptoms like weight gain, high blood pressure, and skin changes. Consistently low cortisol can point toward adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease or a pituitary problem) and cause fatigue, low blood pressure, and weight loss. Because levels vary so much throughout the day and in response to stress, single results are often followed up with more specific dynamic testing (like an ACTH stimulation test) when a disorder is suspected.
Higher cortisol can point to stress or excess cortisol
Often from stress, illness or poor sleep. Rarely, Cushing's syndrome. Steroid medicines can lower cortisol or skew the test, depending on the drug and the lab method.
Lower cortisol can point to underactive adrenal glands
Often seen with tiredness, weakness, dizziness on standing or weight loss.
Who might consider it:
- Ongoing tiredness, weakness or dizziness
- Weight gain around the middle, easy bruising or high blood pressure
- Long-term use of steroid medicines, or stopping them
- A cortisol result outside the range that needs a closer look
What can affect your result
Time of day
Cortisol peaks in the early morning and falls through the day. The time of draw matters.
Stress, sleep and illness
Acute stress, a poor night's sleep or being unwell can raise cortisol.
Estrogen and birth control
They raise the protein that carries cortisol, so total cortisol reads higher.
Preparation
- Have your blood drawn in the morning, usually between 7 and 9 am, unless your provider asks for a different time.
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours before your draw.
- Tell your provider about steroid medicines, including creams, inhalers and injections, and any birth control or estrogen.
- Pause biotin supplements before your draw as your lab or provider advises.
Tests that include Cortisol, Total
Cortisol is a hormone that helps regulate the body's response to stress. This test can help diagnose conditions such as adrenocortical insufficiency, Addison's disease, adrenocortical hypersecretion, and Cushing's syndrome.
Biomarkers
- Cortisol, Total Your main stress hormone, produced by the adrenal glands. Reflects adrenal function and helps evaluate conditions like Cushing's syndrome or adrenal insufficiency.
Cortisol is a hormone that helps regulate the body's response to stress. This test can help diagnose conditions such as adrenocortical insufficiency, Addison's disease, adrenocortical hypersecretion, and Cushing's syndrome.
Biomarkers
- Cortisol, Total Your main stress hormone, produced by the adrenal glands. Reflects adrenal function and helps evaluate conditions like Cushing's syndrome or adrenal insufficiency.
This comprehensive panel assesses biomarkers related to hormonal health, thyroid function, metabolism, cardiovascular health, inflammation, nutrient status, and environmental exposures. The results can help provide a broader picture of overall health and support personalized wellness and treatment strategies.
Biomarkers
- Free Testosterone The small portion of your testosterone that's unbound and biologically active, considered a more accurate reflection of usable hormone than total testosterone.
- HDL Particle Number (HDL-P) HDL particle number — counts your actual HDL ('good' cholesterol) particles rather than just the cholesterol they carry, offering a more detailed cardiovascular risk picture.
- Amylase An enzyme that helps digest carbohydrates, produced mainly by the pancreas and salivary glands. Elevated levels can signal pancreatitis or salivary gland problems.
- Cortisol, Total Your main stress hormone, produced by the adrenal glands. Reflects adrenal function and helps evaluate conditions like Cushing's syndrome or adrenal insufficiency.
- Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) A pituitary hormone that signals your thyroid to produce hormone. The primary screening test for both underactive and overactive thyroid conditions.
- Mercury Measures mercury levels in your blood, used to assess exposure to this toxic heavy metal, often from certain fish or environmental sources.
- Vitamin D, 25-OH, Total The combined measure of both major forms of vitamin D (D2 and D3) in your blood — the standard test used to assess overall vitamin D status.
- Magnesium Measures magnesium, a mineral essential for muscle, nerve, heart, and bone function.
- Testosterone The primary male sex hormone, also present in women in smaller amounts. Evaluated for low testosterone symptoms, fertility, and reproductive hormone imbalances.
- Ferritin Reflects your body's stored iron levels. Low levels point to iron deficiency; high levels can indicate iron overload or, since it's also an inflammation marker, other conditions.
- HDL Large The concentration of large HDL particles in your blood, measured as part of an advanced lipid panel to add detail on cardiovascular risk.
- C-Reactive Protein, High Sensitivity (hs-CRP) A sensitive marker of low-grade inflammation in the body, commonly used to help assess cardiovascular disease risk.
- LDL Particle Number LDL particle number — counts your actual LDL ('bad' cholesterol) particles rather than just the cholesterol they carry, often a stronger cardiovascular risk indicator than standard LDL cholesterol.
- Large VLDL-P Counts the largest VLDL particles, which carry a high amount of triglycerides and are associated with greater cardiovascular risk.
- Thyroglobulin Antibodies (Anti-Tg) An autoantibody against thyroglobulin. Elevated levels are associated with autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and checked before using thyroglobulin to monitor thyroid cancer.
- Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) Gamma-glutamyl transferase, a liver enzyme sensitive to bile duct problems and alcohol use, often used alongside other liver tests.
- VLDL Size Measures the average size of your VLDL particles, used alongside particle number for a more detailed cardiovascular risk assessment.
- LDL Size Measures the average size of your LDL ('bad' cholesterol) particles; smaller, denser particles are considered more likely to contribute to artery plaque.
- Methylmalonic Acid A compound that builds up when vitamin B12 is deficient. A more sensitive marker of B12 status than a B12 blood level alone.
- Rh Type Identifies whether your blood is Rh-positive or Rh-negative, an important factor for blood transfusions and pregnancy management.
- Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (Anti-TPO) An autoantibody that's the most common marker of autoimmune thyroid disease, including Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease.
- Estradiol The main and most potent form of estrogen. Key for reproductive health in women and also present in men; used to evaluate menstrual, fertility, and hormone-related concerns.
- Homocysteine An amino acid byproduct of protein metabolism. Elevated levels are linked to increased cardiovascular risk and can reflect low B vitamin (B12, folate, B6) status.
- ABO Group Identifies your blood type (A, B, AB, or O) based on antigens on your red blood cells. Essential for safely matching blood for transfusions or transplants.
- T4, Free (fT4) The unbound, biologically active portion of thyroxine (T4), your main thyroid hormone. A core marker for evaluating thyroid function.
- Uric Acid A waste product from the breakdown of purines. Elevated levels are linked to gout and kidney stones, and can also reflect metabolic health.
- HDL Size Measures the average size of your HDL ('good' cholesterol) particles, used alongside particle number for a more detailed cardiovascular risk assessment.
- Leptin A hormone released by fat cells that helps regulate appetite and energy balance. Levels generally rise with increased body fat.
- Albumin The main protein made by your liver, which helps balance fluids and carries hormones, vitamins, and medications through your blood. Low levels can point to liver, kidney, or nutrition issues.
- Lipase An enzyme that helps digest fat, produced mainly by the pancreas. Elevated levels are a key marker for pancreatitis.
- Zinc Measures zinc, a trace mineral essential for immune function, wound healing, and taste/smell.
- Iron % Saturation The percentage of transferrin (your iron-carrying protein) that's currently occupied by iron — a key marker for detecting iron deficiency or overload.
- Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S) The sulfated, more stable form of DHEA. A reliable marker of adrenal androgen production, used to evaluate adrenal function and androgen excess.
- Apolipoprotein B The main protein found on LDL and other 'bad' cholesterol particles. Considered a strong indicator of cardiovascular risk, since each particle carries one ApoB molecule.
- LDL Small Measures small, dense LDL particles, a lipid subfraction associated with higher cardiovascular risk and insulin resistance.
- Prolactin A pituitary hormone best known for stimulating milk production; also checked to evaluate menstrual irregularities, fertility issues, or pituitary conditions in men and women.
- Rheumatoid Factor Measures rheumatoid factor, an autoantibody often found in rheumatoid arthritis, used with other tests to help evaluate joint pain and inflammation.
- Lead (Venous) Measures lead levels in your blood, used to assess exposure to this toxic heavy metal.
- Lipoprotein(a) A genetically-determined, LDL-like particle. Elevated levels are an independent, largely inherited risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
- Iron, Total Measures the iron circulating in your blood, used along with other markers (like ferritin and TIBC) to evaluate for iron deficiency or overload.
- Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity Unsaturated Iron-Binding Capacity — reflects how much additional iron your blood's transferrin could still carry, used with iron and TIBC to assess iron status.
- Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) Total Iron-Binding Capacity — reflects how much transferrin (the iron-carrying protein) is available in your blood, used with iron and ferritin to evaluate iron status.
- Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) A protein that binds and transports testosterone and estrogen in your blood, determining how much hormone is 'free' and active. Important for interpreting sex hormone results.
- LP-IR Score Lipoprotein Insulin Resistance Score — a composite score derived from lipoprotein particle measurements that estimates insulin resistance.
- Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) A pituitary hormone that drives egg development in women and sperm production in men. Key marker for fertility and menopause evaluation.
- T3, Free (fT3) The unbound, biologically active portion of triiodothyronine (T3), the more potent thyroid hormone. Used to evaluate thyroid function.
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH) A pituitary hormone that triggers ovulation in women and stimulates testosterone production in men. Used to evaluate fertility, menstrual irregularities, and reproductive hormone disorders.
- Antinuclear Antibodies Antibodies that target structures inside your own cells' nuclei. A positive result is a key screening marker for autoimmune conditions like lupus.
This comprehensive panel assesses biomarkers related to hormonal health, thyroid function, metabolism, cardiovascular health, inflammation, nutrient status, and environmental exposures. The results can help provide a broader picture of overall health and support personalized wellness and treatment strategies.
Biomarkers
- Magnesium Measures magnesium, a mineral essential for muscle, nerve, heart, and bone function.
- Albumin The main protein made by your liver, which helps balance fluids and carries hormones, vitamins, and medications through your blood. Low levels can point to liver, kidney, or nutrition issues.
- LP-IR Score Lipoprotein Insulin Resistance Score — a composite score derived from lipoprotein particle measurements that estimates insulin resistance.
- HDL Size Measures the average size of your HDL ('good' cholesterol) particles, used alongside particle number for a more detailed cardiovascular risk assessment.
- Testosterone The primary male sex hormone, also present in women in smaller amounts. Evaluated for low testosterone symptoms, fertility, and reproductive hormone imbalances.
- Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) A pituitary hormone that signals your thyroid to produce hormone. The primary screening test for both underactive and overactive thyroid conditions.
- Amylase An enzyme that helps digest carbohydrates, produced mainly by the pancreas and salivary glands. Elevated levels can signal pancreatitis or salivary gland problems.
- Zinc Measures zinc, a trace mineral essential for immune function, wound healing, and taste/smell.
- Lipase An enzyme that helps digest fat, produced mainly by the pancreas. Elevated levels are a key marker for pancreatitis.
- T4, Free (fT4) The unbound, biologically active portion of thyroxine (T4), your main thyroid hormone. A core marker for evaluating thyroid function.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA), % Free The percentage of your PSA that's unbound to blood proteins. A lower percentage raises suspicion for prostate cancer, helping refine an elevated total PSA result.
- Free Testosterone The small portion of your testosterone that's unbound and biologically active, considered a more accurate reflection of usable hormone than total testosterone.
- Vitamin D, 25-OH, Total The combined measure of both major forms of vitamin D (D2 and D3) in your blood — the standard test used to assess overall vitamin D status.
- Apolipoprotein B The main protein found on LDL and other 'bad' cholesterol particles. Considered a strong indicator of cardiovascular risk, since each particle carries one ApoB molecule.
- LDL Size Measures the average size of your LDL ('bad' cholesterol) particles; smaller, denser particles are considered more likely to contribute to artery plaque.
- Homocysteine An amino acid byproduct of protein metabolism. Elevated levels are linked to increased cardiovascular risk and can reflect low B vitamin (B12, folate, B6) status.
- Antinuclear Antibodies Antibodies that target structures inside your own cells' nuclei. A positive result is a key screening marker for autoimmune conditions like lupus.
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH) A pituitary hormone that triggers ovulation in women and stimulates testosterone production in men. Used to evaluate fertility, menstrual irregularities, and reproductive hormone disorders.
- HDL Large The concentration of large HDL particles in your blood, measured as part of an advanced lipid panel to add detail on cardiovascular risk.
- Methylmalonic Acid A compound that builds up when vitamin B12 is deficient. A more sensitive marker of B12 status than a B12 blood level alone.
- Mercury Measures mercury levels in your blood, used to assess exposure to this toxic heavy metal, often from certain fish or environmental sources.
- Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (Anti-TPO) An autoantibody that's the most common marker of autoimmune thyroid disease, including Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease.
- Rh Type Identifies whether your blood is Rh-positive or Rh-negative, an important factor for blood transfusions and pregnancy management.
- Cortisol, Total Your main stress hormone, produced by the adrenal glands. Reflects adrenal function and helps evaluate conditions like Cushing's syndrome or adrenal insufficiency.
- Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) A pituitary hormone that drives egg development in women and sperm production in men. Key marker for fertility and menopause evaluation.
- Iron, Total Measures the iron circulating in your blood, used along with other markers (like ferritin and TIBC) to evaluate for iron deficiency or overload.
- Estradiol The main and most potent form of estrogen. Key for reproductive health in women and also present in men; used to evaluate menstrual, fertility, and hormone-related concerns.
- Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) Gamma-glutamyl transferase, a liver enzyme sensitive to bile duct problems and alcohol use, often used alongside other liver tests.
- Leptin A hormone released by fat cells that helps regulate appetite and energy balance. Levels generally rise with increased body fat.
- Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) A protein that binds and transports testosterone and estrogen in your blood, determining how much hormone is 'free' and active. Important for interpreting sex hormone results.
- Lipoprotein(a) A genetically-determined, LDL-like particle. Elevated levels are an independent, largely inherited risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
- Prolactin A pituitary hormone best known for stimulating milk production; also checked to evaluate menstrual irregularities, fertility issues, or pituitary conditions in men and women.
- Lead (Venous) Measures lead levels in your blood, used to assess exposure to this toxic heavy metal.
- Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity Unsaturated Iron-Binding Capacity — reflects how much additional iron your blood's transferrin could still carry, used with iron and TIBC to assess iron status.
- Ferritin Reflects your body's stored iron levels. Low levels point to iron deficiency; high levels can indicate iron overload or, since it's also an inflammation marker, other conditions.
- T3, Free (fT3) The unbound, biologically active portion of triiodothyronine (T3), the more potent thyroid hormone. Used to evaluate thyroid function.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA), Free The unbound portion of prostate-specific antigen. Used alongside total PSA to help assess prostate cancer risk, especially when total PSA is borderline.
- Rheumatoid Factor Measures rheumatoid factor, an autoantibody often found in rheumatoid arthritis, used with other tests to help evaluate joint pain and inflammation.
- C-Reactive Protein, High Sensitivity (hs-CRP) A sensitive marker of low-grade inflammation in the body, commonly used to help assess cardiovascular disease risk.
- Iron % Saturation The percentage of transferrin (your iron-carrying protein) that's currently occupied by iron — a key marker for detecting iron deficiency or overload.
- HDL Particle Number (HDL-P) HDL particle number — counts your actual HDL ('good' cholesterol) particles rather than just the cholesterol they carry, offering a more detailed cardiovascular risk picture.
- LDL Small Measures small, dense LDL particles, a lipid subfraction associated with higher cardiovascular risk and insulin resistance.
- Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S) The sulfated, more stable form of DHEA. A reliable marker of adrenal androgen production, used to evaluate adrenal function and androgen excess.
- ABO Group Identifies your blood type (A, B, AB, or O) based on antigens on your red blood cells. Essential for safely matching blood for transfusions or transplants.
- VLDL Size Measures the average size of your VLDL particles, used alongside particle number for a more detailed cardiovascular risk assessment.
- Thyroglobulin Antibodies (Anti-Tg) An autoantibody against thyroglobulin. Elevated levels are associated with autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and checked before using thyroglobulin to monitor thyroid cancer.
- LDL Particle Number LDL particle number — counts your actual LDL ('bad' cholesterol) particles rather than just the cholesterol they carry, often a stronger cardiovascular risk indicator than standard LDL cholesterol.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) A protein made by the prostate gland. Used to help screen for and monitor prostate cancer, though it can also rise with benign prostate conditions.
- Uric Acid A waste product from the breakdown of purines. Elevated levels are linked to gout and kidney stones, and can also reflect metabolic health.
- Large VLDL-P Counts the largest VLDL particles, which carry a high amount of triglycerides and are associated with greater cardiovascular risk.
- Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) Total Iron-Binding Capacity — reflects how much transferrin (the iron-carrying protein) is available in your blood, used with iron and ferritin to evaluate iron status.
This comprehensive panel assesses biomarkers related to hormonal health, thyroid function, metabolism, cardiovascular health, inflammation, nutrient status, and environmental exposures. The results can help provide a broader picture of overall health and support personalized wellness and treatment strategies.
Biomarkers
- Methylmalonic Acid A compound that builds up when vitamin B12 is deficient. A more sensitive marker of B12 status than a B12 blood level alone.
- Testosterone The primary male sex hormone, also present in women in smaller amounts. Evaluated for low testosterone symptoms, fertility, and reproductive hormone imbalances.
- LDL Size Measures the average size of your LDL ('bad' cholesterol) particles; smaller, denser particles are considered more likely to contribute to artery plaque.
- ABO Group Identifies your blood type (A, B, AB, or O) based on antigens on your red blood cells. Essential for safely matching blood for transfusions or transplants.
- Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) A pituitary hormone that signals your thyroid to produce hormone. The primary screening test for both underactive and overactive thyroid conditions.
- Zinc Measures zinc, a trace mineral essential for immune function, wound healing, and taste/smell.
- Magnesium Measures magnesium, a mineral essential for muscle, nerve, heart, and bone function.
- Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) Gamma-glutamyl transferase, a liver enzyme sensitive to bile duct problems and alcohol use, often used alongside other liver tests.
- Albumin The main protein made by your liver, which helps balance fluids and carries hormones, vitamins, and medications through your blood. Low levels can point to liver, kidney, or nutrition issues.
- LDL Particle Number LDL particle number — counts your actual LDL ('bad' cholesterol) particles rather than just the cholesterol they carry, often a stronger cardiovascular risk indicator than standard LDL cholesterol.
- Leptin A hormone released by fat cells that helps regulate appetite and energy balance. Levels generally rise with increased body fat.
- VLDL Size Measures the average size of your VLDL particles, used alongside particle number for a more detailed cardiovascular risk assessment.
- Vitamin D, 25-OH, Total The combined measure of both major forms of vitamin D (D2 and D3) in your blood — the standard test used to assess overall vitamin D status.
- Prolactin A pituitary hormone best known for stimulating milk production; also checked to evaluate menstrual irregularities, fertility issues, or pituitary conditions in men and women.
- Amylase An enzyme that helps digest carbohydrates, produced mainly by the pancreas and salivary glands. Elevated levels can signal pancreatitis or salivary gland problems.
- C-Reactive Protein, High Sensitivity (hs-CRP) A sensitive marker of low-grade inflammation in the body, commonly used to help assess cardiovascular disease risk.
- Rheumatoid Factor Measures rheumatoid factor, an autoantibody often found in rheumatoid arthritis, used with other tests to help evaluate joint pain and inflammation.
- Uric Acid A waste product from the breakdown of purines. Elevated levels are linked to gout and kidney stones, and can also reflect metabolic health.
- Free Testosterone The small portion of your testosterone that's unbound and biologically active, considered a more accurate reflection of usable hormone than total testosterone.
- Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) A pituitary hormone that drives egg development in women and sperm production in men. Key marker for fertility and menopause evaluation.
- Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) Total Iron-Binding Capacity — reflects how much transferrin (the iron-carrying protein) is available in your blood, used with iron and ferritin to evaluate iron status.
- Rh Type Identifies whether your blood is Rh-positive or Rh-negative, an important factor for blood transfusions and pregnancy management.
- Iron % Saturation The percentage of transferrin (your iron-carrying protein) that's currently occupied by iron — a key marker for detecting iron deficiency or overload.
- Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S) The sulfated, more stable form of DHEA. A reliable marker of adrenal androgen production, used to evaluate adrenal function and androgen excess.
- Ferritin Reflects your body's stored iron levels. Low levels point to iron deficiency; high levels can indicate iron overload or, since it's also an inflammation marker, other conditions.
- LDL Small Measures small, dense LDL particles, a lipid subfraction associated with higher cardiovascular risk and insulin resistance.
- Iron, Total Measures the iron circulating in your blood, used along with other markers (like ferritin and TIBC) to evaluate for iron deficiency or overload.
- Homocysteine An amino acid byproduct of protein metabolism. Elevated levels are linked to increased cardiovascular risk and can reflect low B vitamin (B12, folate, B6) status.
- Estradiol The main and most potent form of estrogen. Key for reproductive health in women and also present in men; used to evaluate menstrual, fertility, and hormone-related concerns.
- Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity Unsaturated Iron-Binding Capacity — reflects how much additional iron your blood's transferrin could still carry, used with iron and TIBC to assess iron status.
- Mercury Measures mercury levels in your blood, used to assess exposure to this toxic heavy metal, often from certain fish or environmental sources.
- HDL Large The concentration of large HDL particles in your blood, measured as part of an advanced lipid panel to add detail on cardiovascular risk.
- Lipase An enzyme that helps digest fat, produced mainly by the pancreas. Elevated levels are a key marker for pancreatitis.
- Antinuclear Antibodies Antibodies that target structures inside your own cells' nuclei. A positive result is a key screening marker for autoimmune conditions like lupus.
- T3, Free (fT3) The unbound, biologically active portion of triiodothyronine (T3), the more potent thyroid hormone. Used to evaluate thyroid function.
- Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (Anti-TPO) An autoantibody that's the most common marker of autoimmune thyroid disease, including Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease.
- T4, Free (fT4) The unbound, biologically active portion of thyroxine (T4), your main thyroid hormone. A core marker for evaluating thyroid function.
- Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) A protein that binds and transports testosterone and estrogen in your blood, determining how much hormone is 'free' and active. Important for interpreting sex hormone results.
- HDL Particle Number (HDL-P) HDL particle number — counts your actual HDL ('good' cholesterol) particles rather than just the cholesterol they carry, offering a more detailed cardiovascular risk picture.
- Cortisol, Total Your main stress hormone, produced by the adrenal glands. Reflects adrenal function and helps evaluate conditions like Cushing's syndrome or adrenal insufficiency.
- Thyroglobulin Antibodies (Anti-Tg) An autoantibody against thyroglobulin. Elevated levels are associated with autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and checked before using thyroglobulin to monitor thyroid cancer.
- HDL Size Measures the average size of your HDL ('good' cholesterol) particles, used alongside particle number for a more detailed cardiovascular risk assessment.
- Lipoprotein(a) A genetically-determined, LDL-like particle. Elevated levels are an independent, largely inherited risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
- Apolipoprotein B The main protein found on LDL and other 'bad' cholesterol particles. Considered a strong indicator of cardiovascular risk, since each particle carries one ApoB molecule.
- Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) A hormone produced by developing egg follicles that reflects ovarian reserve — an estimate of how many eggs remain. Commonly used in fertility evaluations.
- LP-IR Score Lipoprotein Insulin Resistance Score — a composite score derived from lipoprotein particle measurements that estimates insulin resistance.
- Lead (Venous) Measures lead levels in your blood, used to assess exposure to this toxic heavy metal.
- Large VLDL-P Counts the largest VLDL particles, which carry a high amount of triglycerides and are associated with greater cardiovascular risk.
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH) A pituitary hormone that triggers ovulation in women and stimulates testosterone production in men. Used to evaluate fertility, menstrual irregularities, and reproductive hormone disorders.
This comprehensive panel assesses biomarkers related to hormonal health, thyroid function, metabolism, cardiovascular health, inflammation, nutrient status, and environmental exposures. The results can help provide a broader picture of overall health and support personalized wellness and treatment strategies.
Biomarkers
- Cortisol, Total Your main stress hormone, produced by the adrenal glands. Reflects adrenal function and helps evaluate conditions like Cushing's syndrome or adrenal insufficiency.
- T4, Free (fT4) The unbound, biologically active portion of thyroxine (T4), your main thyroid hormone. A core marker for evaluating thyroid function.
- Leptin A hormone released by fat cells that helps regulate appetite and energy balance. Levels generally rise with increased body fat.
- Uric Acid A waste product from the breakdown of purines. Elevated levels are linked to gout and kidney stones, and can also reflect metabolic health.
- Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) Total Iron-Binding Capacity — reflects how much transferrin (the iron-carrying protein) is available in your blood, used with iron and ferritin to evaluate iron status.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA), % Free The percentage of your PSA that's unbound to blood proteins. A lower percentage raises suspicion for prostate cancer, helping refine an elevated total PSA result.
- LP-IR Score Lipoprotein Insulin Resistance Score — a composite score derived from lipoprotein particle measurements that estimates insulin resistance.
- Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) A protein that binds and transports testosterone and estrogen in your blood, determining how much hormone is 'free' and active. Important for interpreting sex hormone results.
- Prolactin A pituitary hormone best known for stimulating milk production; also checked to evaluate menstrual irregularities, fertility issues, or pituitary conditions in men and women.
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH) A pituitary hormone that triggers ovulation in women and stimulates testosterone production in men. Used to evaluate fertility, menstrual irregularities, and reproductive hormone disorders.
- Large VLDL-P Counts the largest VLDL particles, which carry a high amount of triglycerides and are associated with greater cardiovascular risk.
- HDL Large The concentration of large HDL particles in your blood, measured as part of an advanced lipid panel to add detail on cardiovascular risk.
- Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) A hormone produced by developing egg follicles that reflects ovarian reserve — an estimate of how many eggs remain. Commonly used in fertility evaluations.
- Free Testosterone The small portion of your testosterone that's unbound and biologically active, considered a more accurate reflection of usable hormone than total testosterone.
- Magnesium Measures magnesium, a mineral essential for muscle, nerve, heart, and bone function.
- Homocysteine An amino acid byproduct of protein metabolism. Elevated levels are linked to increased cardiovascular risk and can reflect low B vitamin (B12, folate, B6) status.
- Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity Unsaturated Iron-Binding Capacity — reflects how much additional iron your blood's transferrin could still carry, used with iron and TIBC to assess iron status.
- C-Reactive Protein, High Sensitivity (hs-CRP) A sensitive marker of low-grade inflammation in the body, commonly used to help assess cardiovascular disease risk.
- Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) Gamma-glutamyl transferase, a liver enzyme sensitive to bile duct problems and alcohol use, often used alongside other liver tests.
- T3, Free (fT3) The unbound, biologically active portion of triiodothyronine (T3), the more potent thyroid hormone. Used to evaluate thyroid function.
- Lipase An enzyme that helps digest fat, produced mainly by the pancreas. Elevated levels are a key marker for pancreatitis.
- Iron, Total Measures the iron circulating in your blood, used along with other markers (like ferritin and TIBC) to evaluate for iron deficiency or overload.
- Vitamin D, 25-OH, Total The combined measure of both major forms of vitamin D (D2 and D3) in your blood — the standard test used to assess overall vitamin D status.
- Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (Anti-TPO) An autoantibody that's the most common marker of autoimmune thyroid disease, including Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease.
- Antinuclear Antibodies Antibodies that target structures inside your own cells' nuclei. A positive result is a key screening marker for autoimmune conditions like lupus.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) A protein made by the prostate gland. Used to help screen for and monitor prostate cancer, though it can also rise with benign prostate conditions.
- LDL Small Measures small, dense LDL particles, a lipid subfraction associated with higher cardiovascular risk and insulin resistance.
- Testosterone The primary male sex hormone, also present in women in smaller amounts. Evaluated for low testosterone symptoms, fertility, and reproductive hormone imbalances.
- Zinc Measures zinc, a trace mineral essential for immune function, wound healing, and taste/smell.
- ABO Group Identifies your blood type (A, B, AB, or O) based on antigens on your red blood cells. Essential for safely matching blood for transfusions or transplants.
- Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) A pituitary hormone that drives egg development in women and sperm production in men. Key marker for fertility and menopause evaluation.
- Amylase An enzyme that helps digest carbohydrates, produced mainly by the pancreas and salivary glands. Elevated levels can signal pancreatitis or salivary gland problems.
- LDL Size Measures the average size of your LDL ('bad' cholesterol) particles; smaller, denser particles are considered more likely to contribute to artery plaque.
- Albumin The main protein made by your liver, which helps balance fluids and carries hormones, vitamins, and medications through your blood. Low levels can point to liver, kidney, or nutrition issues.
- Thyroglobulin Antibodies (Anti-Tg) An autoantibody against thyroglobulin. Elevated levels are associated with autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and checked before using thyroglobulin to monitor thyroid cancer.
- Iron % Saturation The percentage of transferrin (your iron-carrying protein) that's currently occupied by iron — a key marker for detecting iron deficiency or overload.
- Lead (Venous) Measures lead levels in your blood, used to assess exposure to this toxic heavy metal.
- Mercury Measures mercury levels in your blood, used to assess exposure to this toxic heavy metal, often from certain fish or environmental sources.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA), Free The unbound portion of prostate-specific antigen. Used alongside total PSA to help assess prostate cancer risk, especially when total PSA is borderline.
- HDL Size Measures the average size of your HDL ('good' cholesterol) particles, used alongside particle number for a more detailed cardiovascular risk assessment.
- Ferritin Reflects your body's stored iron levels. Low levels point to iron deficiency; high levels can indicate iron overload or, since it's also an inflammation marker, other conditions.
- HDL Particle Number (HDL-P) HDL particle number — counts your actual HDL ('good' cholesterol) particles rather than just the cholesterol they carry, offering a more detailed cardiovascular risk picture.
- VLDL Size Measures the average size of your VLDL particles, used alongside particle number for a more detailed cardiovascular risk assessment.
- Lipoprotein(a) A genetically-determined, LDL-like particle. Elevated levels are an independent, largely inherited risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
- LDL Particle Number LDL particle number — counts your actual LDL ('bad' cholesterol) particles rather than just the cholesterol they carry, often a stronger cardiovascular risk indicator than standard LDL cholesterol.
- Apolipoprotein B The main protein found on LDL and other 'bad' cholesterol particles. Considered a strong indicator of cardiovascular risk, since each particle carries one ApoB molecule.
- Methylmalonic Acid A compound that builds up when vitamin B12 is deficient. A more sensitive marker of B12 status than a B12 blood level alone.
- Estradiol The main and most potent form of estrogen. Key for reproductive health in women and also present in men; used to evaluate menstrual, fertility, and hormone-related concerns.
- Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) A pituitary hormone that signals your thyroid to produce hormone. The primary screening test for both underactive and overactive thyroid conditions.
- Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S) The sulfated, more stable form of DHEA. A reliable marker of adrenal androgen production, used to evaluate adrenal function and androgen excess.
- Rheumatoid Factor Measures rheumatoid factor, an autoantibody often found in rheumatoid arthritis, used with other tests to help evaluate joint pain and inflammation.
- Rh Type Identifies whether your blood is Rh-positive or Rh-negative, an important factor for blood transfusions and pregnancy management.
This panel identifies all major adrenal steroid hormones and facilitates the diagnosis of the four enzymatic defects associated with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). All steroids are determined in a single assay by LCMSMS using as little as 0.1 mL serum.
Biomarkers
- Corticosterone Measures corticosterone, an adrenal steroid made on the way to aldosterone, as part of a steroid panel that helps look at adrenal enzyme function.
- Cortisone Measures cortisone, the inactive form of cortisol, as part of a steroid panel that helps look at how the body converts and balances cortisol.
- Progesterone A hormone essential for the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Used to confirm ovulation, evaluate fertility, and monitor early pregnancy.
- 17-Hydroxypregnenolone An early steroid made by the adrenal glands and gonads, measured to check for specific enzyme blocks in the production of cortisol and sex hormones.
- 11-Deoxycortisol A steroid made by the adrenal glands on the way to cortisol, measured to look at how well the final steps of cortisol production are working.
- Testosterone The primary male sex hormone, also present in women in smaller amounts. Evaluated for low testosterone symptoms, fertility, and reproductive hormone imbalances.
- Androstenedione A hormone produced by the adrenal glands and gonads that serves as a building block for testosterone and estrogen. Tested to evaluate excess androgen symptoms or adrenal disorders.
- Deoxycorticosterone Measures deoxycorticosterone (DOC), a mineralocorticoid made on the way to aldosterone, to help evaluate adrenal enzyme problems and some causes of high blood pressure.
- 17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) A hormone your adrenal glands make while producing cortisol and other steroid hormones. Mainly used to screen for congenital adrenal hyperplasia and evaluate adrenal or reproductive hormone imbalances.
- Pregnenolone A hormone made from cholesterol that's the starting building block for all your other steroid hormones, including cortisol, DHEA, and sex hormones.
- Cortisol, Total Your main stress hormone, produced by the adrenal glands. Reflects adrenal function and helps evaluate conditions like Cushing's syndrome or adrenal insufficiency.
- Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) A hormone produced by the adrenal glands that serves as a building block for testosterone and estrogen. Reflects adrenal androgen production.
- 18-Hydroxycorticosterone A steroid made by the adrenal glands on the way to aldosterone, measured to help evaluate aldosterone production and conditions affecting it.
ConsultationsConsultation
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