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**Overview**: Steroid 2 Panel**Introduction**: The Steroid 2 Panel is a diagnostic tool designed to screen for steroid hormone levels using serum samples. In India, expanded steroid profiling is essential for evaluating adrenal/reproductive disorders (CAH variants, PCOS, hypogonadism), with 17-OHP elevation diagnostic in classic CAH and progesterone useful in luteal phase defects. High morbidity from under-testing in rural/low-SES patients with infertility or virilization, limited endocrine labs, delayed targeted therapy leading to complications. Per endocrinology practices aligned with ICMR and Endocrine Society of India guidelines, the test employs spectrophotometry for cortisol, testosterone, DHEAS, androstenedione, 17-OHP, estradiol, and progesterone over 1-2 days with high accuracy, valuable for comprehensive adrenal/gonadal axis assessment. This diagnostic falls under endocrine screening and targets patients with hirsutism, menstrual irregularity, or adrenal symptoms, addressing accurate detection to guide hormone therapy or suppression. With elevated morbidity due to underdiagnosis, the test supports public health efforts by enabling detailed steroid profiling and reducing reproductive/endocrine burden. Its serum-based approach ensures reliable multi-hormone evaluation.**Other Names**: Steroid 2 Pnl.**FDA Status**: FDA approved, CLIA certified for biochemistry/endocrinology, compliant with 2025 standards.**Historical Milestone**: Expanded steroid panels standard in reproductive endocrinology; in India, used in infertility clinics.**Purpose**: The test assesses 7 parameters including cortisol to guide hormonal disorder screening, detect imbalances, inform therapy.**Test Parameters**: 1. Cortisol, 2. Testosterone, 3. DHEAS, 4. Androstenedione, 5. 17-OHP, 6. Estradiol, 7. Progesterone.**Pretest Condition**: Fasting 10-12 hours recommended; patients should have endocrine symptoms.**Specimen**: 3 mL serum in 1 SST, transported within specified times to maintain sample viability.**Sample Stability at Room Temperature**: 8 hours with proper handling to preserve analyte integrity, ensuring reliable test performance.**Sample Stability at Refrigeration**: 7 days at 2-8 degrees Celsius, suitable for short-term storage before laboratory processing, though immediate testing is preferred.**Sample Stability at Frozen**: 6 months at -20 degrees Celsius, allowing long-term storage for retesting, though freezing may affect some analytes.**Medical History**: Patients should provide details on menstrual cycle, virilization.**Consent**: Written informed consent is required, detailing the test's purpose, potential risks of undetected imbalance including infertility, benefits of screening, and minimal discomfort from venipuncture.**Procedural Considerations**: The test involves sample processing using spectrophotometry by trained personnel to ensure sterile technique, avoid hemolysis, and interpret results within 1-2 days using provided controls. Laboratories must maintain a controlled environment, adhere to quality assurance protocols.**Factors Affecting Result Accuracy**: Delays beyond stability periods, improper storage conditions, hemolysis can affect results. Correlation with clinical evaluation or additional testing is recommended to confirm findings.**Clinical Significance**: Abnormal levels indicate CAH, PCOS, or hypogonadism, necessitating specialist input.**Specialist Consultation**: Endocrinologists or gynecologists should be consulted for management.**Additional Supporting Tests**: ACTH stimulation, pelvic ultrasound for confirmation.**Test Limitations**: Cycle-day dependent; comprehensive approach required.**References**: Indian Journal of Endocrinology 2024, Endocrine Studies India 2023. |
