Hirsutism Screening Panel I

This panel is crucial in diagnosing hirsutism, a condition that not only impacts a woman's appearance but can also signify underlying health issues. The results can help identify whether the excessive hair growth is due to an imbalance in male hormones, which could be a sign of conditions like PCOS or adrenal gland disorders.

Fasting is not typically required for this panel. However, it's always a good idea to follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider or the laboratory performing the test.

The Hirsutism Screening Panel I is a blood test. A healthcare professional will draw a small amount of your blood, typically from a vein in your arm. This sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

This test is typically ordered when a woman is experiencing symptoms of hirsutism, such as excessive hair growth in areas where men usually have hair. It might also be done if a woman is exhibiting other symptoms associated with a hormonal imbalance, such as irregular periods, acne, or weight gain.

The Hirsutism Screening Panel I measures the levels of DHEA-S, Total Testosterone, and Free Testosterone in the blood. These are male hormones that, when elevated in women, can lead to symptoms like excessive hair growth.

The frequency of this test depends on your symptoms and any underlying conditions. Your doctor will provide guidance based on your specific situation.

Normal values can vary depending on the lab performing the test. However, generally, normal ranges are:

• DHEA-S: 35-430 µg/dL for women.
• Total Testosterone: 15-70 ng/dL for women.
• Free Testosterone: 0.0-4.2 pg/mL for women.

Please note, these ranges are an approximation, and your doctor will interpret your results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.

There are no specific precautions for this test. However, inform your healthcare provider of any medications or supplements you're taking as these could potentially affect the test results.

Factors affecting hormone levels include age, stress, certain medications (like steroids or hormonal contraception), obesity, and conditions like PCOS or adrenal gland disorders.

If your test results are abnormal, you should consult with a specialist, such as an endocrinologist or a gynecologist, who can provide further guidance and treatment options.

Treatment options for hirsutism include medications to manage hormone levels, lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, and in some cases, procedures to remove excess hair.

Yes, uncontrolled hormonal imbalances can lead to complications such as infertility, metabolic syndrome, heart disease, and increased risk of endometrial cancer. Hence, it's crucial to diagnose and manage any hormonal imbalance promptly.

Yes, lifestyle changes, including maintaining a healthy weight, a balanced diet, and regular exercise, can play a vital role in managing hirsutism and its associated conditions.

Hirsutism can be a long-term condition, especially if it's due to PCOS or adrenal disorders. However, it can usually be managed effectively with treatment and lifestyle modifications.

Hirsutism related to genetic predisposition or conditions like PCOS and adrenal gland disorders may not be preventable. However, a healthy lifestyle can help manage the severity of symptoms and improve overall health.

Yes, hirsutism can also lead to other cosmetic issues like acne, seborrhea (oily skin), and male-pattern baldness or thinning hair. All these symptoms together are often referred to as virilization.

The Hirsutism Screening Panel I is a reliable method for detecting hormonal imbalances that may cause hirsutism. However, clinical observation and medical history are also important parts of diagnosing this condition.

The discomfort during a blood draw varies among individuals. While some may feel a prick or stinging sensation, others may not feel much discomfort at all. The procedure is generally quick and any discomfort felt is temporary.

The risks associated with these tests are minimal and similar to those of any other blood tests. These may include slight pain, fainting, hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin), and infection at the site where the needle was inserted.

Yes, certain medications such as hormonal contraceptives, anabolic steroids, and others can affect the levels of DHEA-S and testosterone in your body. It's important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you're taking.

Hormone levels can fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle. It is recommended to perform these tests at a specific time of the cycle, often in the early follicular phase (usually day 2-5 of the cycle).

Total testosterone measures the overall amount of testosterone in the body, including both the testosterone bound to proteins and the testosterone that's 'free' or unbound. Free testosterone, on the other hand, measures just the testosterone that's not bound to proteins. It is the free testosterone that is biologically active and able to affect body functions.

DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. It's the most abundant circulating steroid in the body and serves as a precursor for the production of other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen.

Yes, a balanced diet and regular exercise can help regulate hormone levels. Obesity is linked with higher levels of androgens, including testosterone, so maintaining a healthy weight can help manage hirsutism and its symptoms.

Yes, hirsutism is treatable. The treatment usually aims at lowering the levels of male hormones, slowing down hair growth, and removing unwanted hair. Treatment strategies often involve lifestyle modifications