Expanded Male Hormone Panels (Consultation Included)

Why is it important to measure male hormones?

Optimal health is dependent on a balance of hormones, not just a single hormone.
Measurements of hormones can be used in two general ways:

• To estimate the body’s own hormone production as a baseline test
• To monitor levels of hormones during treatment

Dr. Guberman can use the information gathered from the Male Hormone Panel (MHP) to gain a better understanding of your current hormone levels and to create a treatment plan that is right for you.

The Male Hormone Panel (MHP)

The DiagnosTechs Male Hormone Panels use noninvasive saliva testing to evaluate levels of various hormones involved in male reproductive and sexual function. These panels include tests for several hormones to give a comprehensive picture of male hormonal balance. Information about your hormone levels can be valuable when evaluating for conditions related to infertility, sexual dysfunction, and andropause—an age-related decline in male hormone levels.

• Testosterone – This hormone is produced in the testes and is necessary for healthy male reproductive function. Testosterone helps preserve lean body mass, bone density, cognitive function, red blood cell count, and libido.
• DHEA – A hormone produced in the adrenal glands as a precursor to testosterone and estrogen. Supplementation of DHEA is common in hormone replacement therapy.

Androstenedione – Another important reproductive hormone precursor.

• Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) – Conversion of testosterone to DHT increases with age. Excess DHT is associated with enlargement of the prostate or male-pattern baldness.
• Estrogens (Estrone and Estradiol) – Important in male health as well. High estrogens have been associated with breast enlargement, prostate cancer, fat redistribution, and obesity. Controlling estrogen levels can be helpful in treating symptoms of andropause.
• Progesterone – Progesterone is produced in men and is a precursor to testosterone and estrogens. Elevated progesterone may be due to exposure and can lead to elevations in other hormones.

Why saliva instead of blood?

For hormones to be active, they have to exist in their free state. In blood, most hormones are bound to proteins or cells and are inactive. In saliva, hormones exist in their free state and are bioavailable.