Free HRT Diagnostic Testing & Assessment Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers

Question 1: Which lab test is commonly used to assess thyroid function?

FSH
TSH (Correct answer)
LH
Prolactin

Correct answer: TSH

A TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) test is the most common and sensitive initial lab test used to assess thyroid function. TSH levels indicate how well the pituitary gland is communicating with the thyroid. High TSH often suggests an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), while low TSH can indicate an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).

Question 2: Why is a DHEA-S test ordered in hormone evaluations?

It measures estrogen levels
It evaluates bone density
It assesses adrenal androgen production (Correct answer)
It monitors thyroid function

Correct answer: It assesses adrenal androgen production

DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) is an androgen primarily produced by the adrenal glands. Measuring DHEA-S levels helps evaluate adrenal function and identify conditions related to excess or deficiency of adrenal androgens. This test is crucial in hormone evaluations to distinguish adrenal androgen issues from gonadal ones, impacting overall hormone balance.

Question 3: What does a low serum testosterone level in males typically indicate?

High estrogen
Adrenal insufficiency
Hypogonadism (Correct answer)
Thyroid overactivity

Correct answer: Hypogonadism

A low serum testosterone level in males is the hallmark diagnostic criterion for hypogonadism. This condition indicates that the testes are not producing adequate amounts of testosterone, leading to various symptoms such as reduced libido, fatigue, and muscle loss. Therefore, a low testosterone level directly points to hypogonadism.

Question 4: Which hormone is commonly assessed to determine menopause status?

Cortisol
Insulin
FSH (Correct answer)
DHEA

Correct answer: FSH

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels are commonly assessed to determine menopause status. As ovarian function declines during perimenopause and menopause, estrogen production decreases, leading to a compensatory rise in FSH levels. Persistently elevated FSH levels, along with clinical symptoms, are indicative of menopause.

Question 5: Which test would be used to evaluate cortisol rhythm in suspected adrenal disorders?

Fasting glucose
24-hour salivary cortisol (Correct answer)
TSH
Lipid panel

Correct answer: 24-hour salivary cortisol

Cortisol levels fluctuate throughout the day, following a diurnal rhythm. A 24-hour salivary cortisol test allows for multiple samples to be collected at different times, providing a comprehensive profile of cortisol production and its rhythm. This method is ideal for evaluating suspected adrenal disorders like Cushing's syndrome or adrenal insufficiency, where the normal rhythm is disrupted.

Question 6: Why are estradiol levels monitored in hormone replacement therapy?

To prevent osteoporosis only
To regulate mood
To evaluate estrogen balance (Correct answer)
To check testosterone suppression

Correct answer: To evaluate estrogen balance

Estradiol is the most potent form of estrogen and plays a central role in female reproductive health. Monitoring estradiol levels during HRT is essential to ensure that the patient is receiving an proper dose, preventing symptoms of both estrogen deficiency and excess. This helps achieve optimal therapeutic effects while minimizing potential side effects.

Free HRT Diagnostic Testing & Assessment Questions and Answers

Which lab test is commonly used to assess thyroid function?