FSH and LH are produced by the pituitary gland to control the production of sex hormones including testosterone and estrogen, and sperm and egg cells. They are both important in diagnosing primary or secondary hypogonadism, infertility, or potential pituitary adenomas.

The PTH test is used to help identify hyperparathyroidism, to find the cause of abnormal calcium levels, or to check the status of chronic kidney disease. PTH controls calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood.

The thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is produced and secreted by the pituitary gland and stimulates the thyroid to produce T3 and T4. When TSH is elevated, low thyroid function may be indicated. If TSH is low it is indicative of high thyroid function. A study found that TSH was suppressed in all subjects after food, so fasting may be suggested although it is not reqired by Quest. Free T4 and Free T4 values did not change significantly after eating.

The Anti-Mullerian Hormone ( AMH ) Test is used to assess ovarian function and menopausal status; in the evaluation of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or to evaluate the effectiveness of ovarian cancer treatment.

A single fasting growth hormone (GH) level is of limited value. The secretion of GH is episodic and pulsatile. GH has a half-life of 20 to 25 minutes. Testing for growth hormone deficiency or excess is best done as part of a dynamic test involving specific stimuli (see the online Endocrine Appendices: Growth Hormone Stimulation and Growth Hormone Suppression). Insulin-like growth factor-1 can also be useful in assessing growth hormone status.

This panel is the most inclusive of all offered on the site for men who want a wide picture of their health or who are considering starting testosterone replacement therapy.  It provides a baseline overview of your sex hormones, thyroid gland, adrenal function, metabolic function, cholesterol, prostate, and overall health.  Tests included: 

• CBC
• CMP
• Lipid Panel
• Testosterone
• Total (LC/MS) Estradiol, Ultra Sensitive
• DHEA-s
• TSH
• Free T3
• PSA
• LH
• FSH

This test measures levels of drenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which is also called adrenocorticotropin and corticotropin, a hormone made in the anterior pituitary gland that tells the adrenal glands to release cortisol, DHEA, and aldosterone. The ACTH plasma test quantifies the blood's level of ACTH. A patient's blood is drawn for the test and then sent to a lab for examination. The test findings enable the diagnosis of ailments such as Addison's disease, Cushing's syndrome, and adrenal tumors

This panel includes comprehensive testing of the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in addition to free thyroxine (T4) and free triiodothyronine (T3).

This Testosterone Panel Includes 5 Tests:

• Testosterone, Total, LC/MS (most accurate testosterone test for men with high testosterone and women, no upper or lower limit)
• Testosterone, Free. Free testosterone is best calculated based on the LC/MS-derived total testosterone and equilibrium dialysis-derived percent free levels. 
• Testosterone, Bioavailable. Bioavailable testosterone is calculated based on the LC/MS/MS-derived total testosterone,  free testosterone levels, albumin and SHBG.
• Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)
• Albumin

Note: Despite SHBG not being listed on the lab requisition form under "Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable, and Total, Males (Adult)," rest assured the results include this critical component, as it's necessary for calculating bioavailable testosterone.

T3 or triiodothyronine is the active form of the thyroid hormone. T3 acts as a metabolic throttle for fueling all of the daily cellular functions. Free T3 is the unbound portion of T3 that is biologically active.

Estrogen is the primary female sex hormone as well as a medication. It is responsible for the development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics. There are three major endogenous estrogens in women and men: estrone, estradiol, and estriol. This test does not specify each of these estrogens.

The fasting insulin test is a blood test that measures the level of insulin in your blood after you have fasted (not eaten or drunk anything except water) for at least 8 hours. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar levels. The fasting insulin test is often used to help diagnose conditions such as insulin resistance, prediabetes, and type 2 diabetes. It may also be ordered to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for these conditions. The test is usually done in the morning, after an overnight fast. The test results will be reported in units of insulin per liter of blood (U/L). It is important to note that the interpretation of a fasting insulin test may vary depending on the individual's medical history and other factors. A healthcare provider should be consulted to interpret the test results correctly.

Insulin-like Growth Factor 1, also known as IGF-1, is used as a biomarker for blood levels of human growth hormone. It is a hormone produced by the liver and other tissues which affects growth-promoting activities and glucose metabolism. The blood level of IGF-1 appears to fluctuate over 24 hours and is found to be related to growth hormone secretion.

 Progesterone is a female hormone important for the regulation of ovulation and menstruation. It is also present in men in smaller concentrations. Progesterone is a steroid hormone that plays numerous roles within the human body. It is crucial to the production of sex hormones and corticosteroids, as well as playing a role as a neuro-steroid (brain function). 

Thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) is a globulin that binds thyroid hormones in circulation. It is one of three transport proteins (along with transthyretin and serum albumin) responsible for carrying the thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) in the bloodstream. Of these three proteins, TBG has the highest affinity for T4 and T3 but is present in the lowest concentration. Despite its low concentration, TBG carries the majority of T4 in the blood plasma.

This lab test panel includes main blood test makers involved in hair loss in women and men: Complete Blood Count (CBC)- Can detect potential low hemoglobin and infections that can lead to hair loss. Ferritin- Low ferritin, an iron storage protein, has been linked to hair loss and slow down of hair growth. Iron and Total Iron Capacity (TIBC)- Low iron anemia has been linked to hair loss.  Hyperandrogenism: Excessive male hormones (androgens): Total Testosterone (LC/MS), Free Testosterone (Equilibrium Ultrafiltration), DHEA-S, Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)  Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism: Thyroid Stimulation Hormone (TSH), Free Triidothyronine (Free T3)

Comprehensive and All-Inclusive Lab Test Panel for clients of The Wellness By Design Project.  The panel includes:  Testosterone Free with Total, Estrogens Total, Estrone, Estradiol, DHEA-S, Progesterone, Pregnenolone, Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), FSH/LH, Cortisol, Prolactin, TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3, Anti TPO, AntiTG, C-reactive protein (high sensitivity), Homocysteine, Apolipoprotein B, Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), Insulin, Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG), Vitamin D 25-hydroxy, Complete Metabolic Panel, Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT), Lipid Profile, Complete Blood Count (CBC), Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), Magnesium (serum), Phosphorus (serum), LDH, Uric Acid, Iron Serum, Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC), Iron Saturation, Ferritin, and Fibrinogen activity.

The adrenal gland produces a hormone known as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). It is also made in the brain. DHEA leads to the production of androgens and estrogens (male and female sex hormones). DHEA levels in the body begin to decrease after age 30. Lower DHEA levels are found in people with hormonal disorders, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, depression, diabetes, inflammation, immune disorders, and osteoporosis. Corticosteroids, birth control taken by mouth, and agents that treat psychiatric disorders may reduce DHEA levels.

Tests included are:

Complete Blood Count with Differential (CBC)
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Hemoglobin A1c
Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel
Urinalysis, Complete
TSH
Thyroid Free T3
Thyroid Free T4
Reverse T3
TPO Antibodies
Thyroglobulin Antibodies
Homocysteine
Cardio C-Reactive Protein
CPK
Estradiol, Ultra Sensitive
Testosterone Total & Free (LC/MS- No upper limit)
DHEA – S
Prolactin
DHT
IGF-1
Progesterone
Estrone
Total Estrogens
LH + FSH
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)
Vitamin D (25OHD)
Vitamin B-12
Folate
Ferritin
Iron & TIBC (Total Iron Binding Capacity)

Aldosterone (ALD) is one of a group of connected hormones. They form the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system; this system is activated when there is a decrease in blood flow to your kidneys following a drop in blood volume or blood pressure

A blood pregnancy test is a medical test used to determine if a woman is pregnant by detecting the presence of the hormone hCG in her blood. Shortly after the fertilized egg implants into the uterine lining, the developing placenta produces the hormone known as hCG. This test is the Quantitative hCG test (also known as a beta hCG test) and measures the specific amount of hCG present in the blood. It can help determine how far along a pregnancy is, monitor the progress of the pregnancy, and detect potential issues like an ectopic pregnancy or a miscarriage.

Blood pregnancy tests are more sensitive than over-the-counter urine pregnancy tests and can detect pregnancy earlier – as soon as 6 to 8 days after ovulation.

This test for adrenal insufficiency includes 4 measurements of your salivary Cortisol level during one day. Cortisol, also known as the "stress hormone" can be either too high or too low which may be a sign of adrenal distress.

Estrone (E1) is one of the three estrogens, which also include estriol and estradiol. Estrone is the least abundant of the three and is considered a pro-hormone of estradiol.

This is the most cost effective testosterone test panel that takes the least amount of time to perform and that includes 5 important tests: 1- Total testosterone, 2- Calculated free testosterone, 3- Bioavailable (unbound) testosterone, 4- Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), and albumin. Testosterone upper limit under 1,500 ng/dL (ECLIA, immunoassay). It is accurate for most men using or not using TRT . For men expecting very high testosterone blood levels over 1,500 ng/dL or low total T below 250 ng/dL, the LC/MS testosterone test is more appropriate, but it takes a few more days to perform. NOTE: Despite SHBG not being listed on the lab requisition form under "Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable, and Total, Males (Adult)," rest assured the results include this critical component, as it's necessary for calculating bioavailable testosterone.

Pregnenolone is known as the mother hormone. All other steroids including testosterone and estrogen are derived from this important hormone. For this reason, optimal blood levels of pregnenolone are critical for a healthy hormone balance.  This test uses liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry, the most accurate assay for hormones.

The thyroid gland produces and secretes T4, otherwise known as thyroxine. Proteins bind to T4 and carry it throughout the bloodstream. Once in the tissues, T4 is released from the proteins and is now free to convert into the more active form called T3. For this reason, many doctors believe that measuring free T4 is a more sensitive test for thyroid hormone production.

To find out if sperm count is normalized in men using hCG plus TRT, several studies have found that 17OH-P blood level is correlated to intratesticular testosterone (ITT) required for the testicles to make sperm, so testing for this hormone could not only save time while optimizing HCG dose/frequency but also eliminate the need to perform testicular aspirations, a very difficult procedure to do. Sperm count does not stabilize until 6-8 weeks after starting hCG plus TRT, so knowing your 17OH-progesterone blood level can give you a quick way to determine if your hCG dose and frequency is adequate before your first follow-up semen analysis after 8 weeks.

The determination of TPO antibody levels is the most sensitive test for detecting autoimmune thyroid disease (eg, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, idiopathic myxedema, and Graves disease) and detectable concentrations of anti-TPO antibodies are observed in most patients with these disorders. The highest TPO antibody levels are observed in patients suffering from Hashimoto thyroiditis. In this disease, the prevalence of TPO antibodies is about 90% of cases, confirming the autoimmune origin of the disease. These autoantibodies also frequently occur (60%–80%) in the course of Graves disease.

This test is not the sensitive estradiol test but the regular one. It is not recommended for men (it is adequate for pre-menapausal women).  The results from this test are usually available 2 business days faster than the sensitive estradiol test.

This diabetes panel includes important tests usually prescribed for anyone living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. It includes A1c, CMP, Urinialysis, Insulin, and Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT).

Ferritin is a protein that stores iron. Red blood cells need iron to form normally and carry oxygen around your body. Low levels of ferritin lead to iron deficiency anemia, which means you have too few red blood cells. High levels of ferritin can damage your joints, heart, liver, and pancreas.

Approximately 95% of IGF-1 and IGF-II are bound to IGFBP-3, which makes this protein the major carrier of the insulin-like growth factors in circulation. The function of the binding protein is to extend the half-life of the growth factors in the circulation.

The serum iron test measures the amount of iron in your blood. The total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) test looks at how well the iron moves through your body.

This ultrasensitive estradiol test is recommended for men. The commonly used estradiol test may overestimate estradiol in men. That test uses immunoassay technology that cannot differentiate C-Reactive Protein (involved in inflammation) from estradiol, so it reads the combination of the two as estradiol. This ultrasensitive estradiol test is based on liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS), an assay technology that does not have that limitation. 

Important note:  The blood sample is sent out to Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute San Juan Capistrano, Caifornia.  Overnight delivery and testing is performed on Sunday and Friday.  Reports are available within 5-7 business days from the time the specimen is collected.

Women and men living with fibromyalgia do not have characteristic or consistent abnormalities on laboratory testing. However, routine laboratory and imaging studies are important to help rule out diseases with similar manifestations and to assist in diagnosis of certain inflammatory diseases that frequently coexist with fibromyalgia. These are the lab tests commonly checked by physicians treating fibromyalgia patients: CMP, CBC, Urinalysis, TSH, Vitamin D & B-12, Iron/TIBC, Magnesium in RBC, ESR, CPK and Ferritin.

Protein, Gloublin and Albumin - The major proteins seen in the serum are albumin and globulin-the latter being primarily alpha 1 and alpha 2 globulin, beta globulin and gamma globulin. Albumin accounts for more than 50% of the total serum proteins. The albumin to globulin (A/G) ratio has been used as an index of disease state, however, it is not a specific marker for disease because it does not indicate which specific proteins are altered. The normal A/G ratio is 0.8-2.0. The A/G ratio can be decreased in response to a low albumin or to elevated globulins. Total globulins may be increased in some chronic inflammatory diseases (TB, syphilis) multiple myeloma, collagen disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.  Decreased levels are seen in hepatic dysfunction, renal disease and various neoplasms.

These two tests measure antithyroglobulin antibodies and Anti-TPO antibodies that are commonly present in patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Graves disease and other thyroid-related conditions. Antibodies against the protein thyroglobulin can result in the destruction of thyroid cells. TPO antibodies are created when the immune system of a person targets by pure error elements of the thyroid gland or protein, leading to chronic thyroid inflammation, tissue damage, and damage to the thyroid function. Leaving this untreated may cause severe health issues. 

Allergy Mold Panel, Complete -

This panel tests for specific IgE antibodies to 6 molds that are commonly associated with allergies. Allergen-specific serum IgE testing is considered comparable to skin testing and may be preferred in some clinical situations. However, a positive test result only indicates that a patient is sensitized to the allergen of concern. Many IgE-sensitized individuals do not develop any symptoms when exposed to the allergen. Only a qualified medical professional who has conducted a thorough clinical evaluation should make an allergy diagnosis. These are the 6 molds tested:

Alternaria alternata (m6)

Alternaria is one of the most common outdoor molds and a frequent cause of mold allergies. When Alternaria spores are inhaled, they can trigger an allergic response in susceptible individuals. This can lead to symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and asthma exacerbations.1

Aspergillus fumigatus (m3)

Aspergillus is a genus of molds that can cause both allergic reactions and infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems. Aspergillus fumigatus is a common indoor mold that can trigger allergic rhinitis, asthma, and a rare condition called allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA).2

Cladosporium herbarum (m2)

Cladosporium is one of the most common outdoor molds and a frequent cause of mold allergies. When breathed in by sensitive people, Cladosporium spores can cause allergic reactions like sneezing, nasal congestion, and asthma symptoms. 1

Mucor racemosus (m4)

Mucor is a genus of molds that can cause allergic reactions in some people. Inhaling Mucor spores may lead to symptoms like nasal congestion, sneezing, and asthma exacerbations in those with a Mucor allergy.

Penicillium notatum (m1)

Penicillium is a common indoor mold that can cause allergic reactions. When Penicillium spores are inhaled, they may trigger symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and asthma in individuals with a Penicillium allergy.1

Stemphylium botryosum (m10)

Stemphylium is a genus of molds that can be an allergen for some people. Inhaling Stemphylium spores may lead to allergic rhinitis symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy/watery eyes in those with a Stemphylium allergy.In conclusion, when sensitive people inhale the spores from these common mold species, they can all cause allergic reactions. The allergic symptoms typically include nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and asthma exacerbations. Avoiding exposure to these molds is key for managing mold allergies.12

 A prolactin blood test is used by doctors to evaluate sexual dysfunction or very low testosterone blood levels of unknown causes in both men and women.

The Urinalysis test panel screens for a variety of conditions including urinary tract infections ( UTI ), urinary bladder disease, kidney disease and diabetes. Tests included: Color, Appearance, Specific gravity, pH, Protein, Glucose, Occult blood, Ketones, Leukocyte esterase, Nitrite, Bilirubin, Urobilinogen, and Microscopic examination of urine sediment

The Rheumatoid Arthritis Factor is often evaluated in patients suspected of having any form of arthritis or destructive articular disease even though positive results can be due to other causes, and negative results do not rule out disease. But, in combination with signs and symptoms, it can play a role in both diagnosis and disease prognosis. It is part of the usual disease criteria of rheumatoid arthritis.

The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR or sed rate) is the rate at which red blood cells sediment in a period of one hour. It is a common hematology test and is a non-specific measure of inflammation. To perform the test, anticoagulated blood is traditionally placed in an upright tube, known as a Westergren tube, and the rate at which the red blood cells fall is measured and reported in mm at the end of one hour. Elevated levels of ESR are usually found in people who have different types of diseases, such as autoimmune disease, anemia, kidney disease, cancer, and other health complications.

Cortisol (hydrocortisone) is the most prominent glucocorticosteroid, and it is essential for the maintenance of several body functions. The most important physiological effects of cortisol are that it raises blood sugar levels (enhances gluconeogenesis, or breaks down glucose) and lowers inflammation and the immune system.

This test measures thyroglobulin antibodies commonly present in patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Antibodies against the protein thyroglobulin can result in the destruction of thyroid cells. This destruction can lead to hypothyroidism. NOTE: Dietary supplements containing biotin may interfere in assays and may skew results to be either falsely high or falsely low. For patients receiving the recommended daily doses of biotin, draw samples at least 8 hours following the last biotin supplementation. For patients on mega doses of biotin supplements, draw samples at least 72 hours following the last biotin supplementation.

The reverse T3 test has to be done at the same time you do the free T3, and you then measure the ratio between the two by dividing the RT3 into the Free T3. The body produces the benign RT3 naturally to rid itself of excess of T4, but in some cases, such as high or low cortisol, RT3 is produced in excess, which can clog cell receptors from receiving T3. FT3 is usually twenty or more times higher than RT3. NOTE: Reverse T3 is analyzed using a specific technique called liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS). There's a special place in the U.S. where these precise machines needed for LC/MS panels run only on two specific days a week. So, sometimes the clock ticks a bit while we wait for samples to return from their initial collection points. Results may take 7 business days.

This test measures the amount of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the blood.  Low DHT has been associated with low libido and high DHT has been linked to acne, hair loss and benign prostatic inflammation in a minority of men.

This test measures the free (unbound to SHBG or albumin) estradiol and total sensitive estradiol in blood. The test is performed using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS). NOTE: This test is a send out test to Quest's Nichols Institute San Juan Capistrano.  Testing schedule is Mon and Wed.  Reports are available within 4-14 days from the time the specimen is received at the send out testing lab. Test results may take up to 16 business days.

Lipid Panel: Evaluates the risk for developing atherosclerosis (arterial plaque) and coronary heart disease. This test includes: Total Cholesterol, Triglycerides ,HDL Cholesterol, LDL Cholesterol, Total Cholesterol/HDL Ratio. FASTING REQUIRED.

Includes liver and kidney function, glucose and electrolytes

This test measures Zinc levels in red blood cells (RBC). Red blood cell (RBC) analysis is an invaluable method for assessing insufficiency or excess of elements that have important functions within cells or on blood cell membranes. It may be more accurate than testing Zinc in blood serum.

The Cardio IQ® Insulin Resistance Score (IR), which uses fasting insulin and C-peptide measurements to estimate a person's likelihood of having insulin resistance. It eliminates the need for multiple samples and reduces the chance of errors that can occur with some other tests.

Having a high score (indicating a greater probability of insulin resistance) was linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, even after accounting for other risk factors. 

An IR score of <33 suggests that an individual has normal insulin sensitivity.
A score of 33 to 66 suggests that an individual has >4-fold greater odds of having IR compared with an individual with a score <33 .
A score >66 suggests that an individual has >15-fold greater odds of having IR compared to an individual with a score

Fasting Required for 10-12 hours. Water only.

This is the most accurate progesterone test that has no potential interactions and can detect very low levels in men and women.  Since it is performed with liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, results are available after 5 to 7 business days.

Vitamin D is essential for bone health and many metabolic processes. The body derives it from sunlight and food sources. Many people do not get enough sunlight or do not consume enough vitamin D rich foods. This test is important to determine if you need vitamin D supplementation or if your current supplementation is effective.

Renin, also known as angiotensinogenase, is an enzyme that the kidneys produce to regulate aldosterone production. It’s also essential in the renin–angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) which maintains your body’s fluid balance and blood pressure. Aldosterone is the primary of several endogenous members of the class of mineralocorticoids in humans. Aldosterone tends to promote sodium and water retention, and lower plasma postasium concentrations.

THIS IS THE MOST AFFORDABLE TESTOSTERONE TEST IN THE U.S. The most accurate way to measure total testosterone is with liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. This panel also shows free testosterone percent by equilibrium dialysis and free testosterone calculated from percent free T. This test is more accurate for low and high testosterone blood levels (for men who expect high testosterone blood levels over 1,500 ng/dL, women, and children who usually have low T levels). It has no interferences with supplements or anabolics. Note: Results may take 5-7 business days. For a faster turnaround, choose this test instead: Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable and Total (With Lower & Upper Limit) plus SHBG

Patients with diabetes may get a C-peptide test as a means of distinguishing type 1 diabetes from type 2 diabetes or Maturity onset diabetes of the young (MODY). Measuring C-peptide can help to determine how much of their own natural insulin a person is producing as C-peptide is secreted in equimolar amounts to insulin. C-peptide levels are measured instead of insulin levels because C-peptide can assess a person's own insulin secretion even if they receive insulin injections, and because the liver metabolizes a large and variable amount of insulin secreted into the portal vein but does not metabolize C-peptide, meaning blood C-peptide may be a better measure of portal insulin secretion than insulin itself.

This high sensitivity CRP test is used along other blood markers to assess a patient's potential risk for cardiovascular disease. To illustrate the difference between CRP and hs-CRP, traditional testing measures CRP (quantitative) within the range of 10 to 1,000 mg/L, whereas hs-CRP values range from 0.5 to 10 mg/L. In simpler terms, hs-CRP measures trace amounts of CRP in the blood. Hs-CRP is the analyte of choice for cardiovascular risk assessment