Comprehensive Urinary Hormone Profile

Hormones are made and released by cells of the endocrine glands. These “chemical messengers” are transported by the blood to various target cells on which they have specific effects. Hormones are crucial for health and well being. They mediate a wide variety of functions from anti-inflammatory activity, protection against osteoporosis and certain cancers, to regulation of sexual function and resistance to stress.

There are different classes of hormones. Of these are the steroid hormones produced by the adrenal glands and gonads (ovaries and testicles). The adrenal hormones include cortisol and DHEA. The hormones of the gonads, known as sex hormones, include estrogens, progesterone and testosterone. These steroid hormones and their metabolites are the foundation of US BioTek’s Comprehensive Urinary Hormone Profile. 

Hormone testing is primarily used to identify hormone deficiencies and excess. These conditions are recognized through laboratory tests in addition to evidence from physical signs, symptoms and past medical history.

The levels of many hormones and their metabolites may fluctuate throughout the course of a day reflecting physical and mental status. A 24-hour urine sample offers the most sensitive means to account for these natural daily variations. Optimal hormone levels may vary from person to person but should be within a range that allows the individual relief from complaints and problems suggestive of a hormone deficiency or excess.  Assessment and treatment is under the guidance of the physician who may interpret test results against information gained from a thorough physical exam and interview.

Our comprehensive Urinary Steroid Hormone Profile provides data for 30 key analytes serving as markers for:

• Major Androgens, Estrogens, Progesterone & Metabolites
  
  
• Adrenal Hormones & Metabolites

These hormones and their metabolites are measured through GC/MS from an aliquot of a 24-hour urine collection.

Steroid hormones in urine are present as either free (trace quantities) or conjugate form that must undergo quantitative hydrolysis. Our refined assay methodology retains steroid structure and constitution for maximum recovery through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS); the method of choice for accurate steroid measurement. 

• A 24-hour hormone urine profile is an effective means to measure hormone deficiencies and excess in both women and men.
  
  
• A 24-hour urine sample provides a time integrated assessment of the biologically active hormone form and metabolites, for a comprehensive look into their production and metabolic activity throughout the natural course of a day.

Some of the physical signs and symptoms that may suggest a steroid hormone deficiency or excess include but are not limited to –

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