Is LC-MS/MS the Magic Bullet? - What the Endocrinologist Should Know

madman

Super Moderator
Abstract

Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is a powerful tool that is changing the way we analyze steroids in the clinical laboratory. It offers positive compound identification to enable the unequivocal identification of a compound free from interference.
LC-MS/MS is already opening up the field of steroid analysis in endocrinology and is providing new applications for individual steroids and panels of steroids in different clinical conditions. LC-MS/MS is now well-accepted technology and is increasingly being used to replace problematic immunoassay methods because of greater sensitivity and specificity. Improved sample preparation, modern chromatography methods, and sensitive, faster scanning mass spectrometers have all played a role in improving LC-MS/MS. LC-MS/MS is also playing a key role in improving the quality of assays through the development of reference measurement procedures, characterization of reference materials, and multi-site calibration programs. There is increasing interest in multiplexing steroid assays into panels of diagnostic tests to aid and improve the diagnosis and monitoring of disease.
 

hCG Mixing Calculator

HCG Mixing Protocol Calculator

TRT Hormone Predictor Widget

TRT Hormone Predictor

Predict estradiol, DHT, and free testosterone levels based on total testosterone

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer

This tool provides predictions based on statistical models and should NOT replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your TRT protocol.

ℹ️ Input Parameters

Normal range: 300-1000 ng/dL

Predicted Hormone Levels

Enter your total testosterone value to see predictions

Results will appear here after calculation

Understanding Your Hormones

Estradiol (E2)

A form of estrogen produced from testosterone. Important for bone health, mood, and libido. Too high can cause side effects; too low can affect well-being.

DHT

Dihydrotestosterone is a potent androgen derived from testosterone. Affects hair growth, prostate health, and masculinization effects.

Free Testosterone

The biologically active form of testosterone not bound to proteins. Directly available for cellular uptake and biological effects.

Scientific Reference

Lakshman KM, Kaplan B, Travison TG, Basaria S, Knapp PE, Singh AB, LaValley MP, Mazer NA, Bhasin S. The effects of injected testosterone dose and age on the conversion of testosterone to estradiol and dihydrotestosterone in young and older men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2010 Aug;95(8):3955-64.

DOI: 10.1210/jc.2010-0102 | PMID: 20534765 | PMCID: PMC2913038

Beyond Testosterone Podcast

Online statistics

Members online
1
Guests online
132
Total visitors
133

Latest posts

Back
Top