Hirsutism Evaluation Panel Test: Uses, Preparation, Results & Cost
About Hirsutism Evaluation Panel Test: Uses, Preparation, Results & Cost
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Hirsutism Profile, Hirsutism Screening Panel, Hyperandrogenism Panel |
| Sample Type | Venous blood (serum) |
| Fasting Required | No, but an early morning sample (6 to 10 a.m.) is preferred |
| Report Time | 3 to 5 days |
| Recommended For | Primarily women and female adolescents; occasionally children of both sexes with rapid-onset excessive hair growth |
| Price | Starting at ₹5,000 |
What is a Hirsutism Evaluation Panel?
A hirsutism evaluation panel is a blood test that measures the levels of male hormones, called androgens, in the body. It is ordered when a woman or adolescent girl shows signs of excessive hair growth in areas such as the face, chest, or back.
The test is also known as the hirsutism profile or hyperandrogenism panel. A blood sample drawn from a vein in the arm is used for analysis.
What Does a Hirsutism Evaluation Panel Measure?
The hirsutism panel checks several hormones that influence hair growth and androgen activity. Here are the key parameters included in the test:
| Parameter | What It Tells Us |
|---|---|
| DHEAS (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulphate) | A hormone made by the adrenal glands; elevated levels can trigger unwanted hair growth |
| Total Testosterone | The overall amount of testosterone circulating in the blood |
| Free Testosterone | The active, unbound form of testosterone available to body tissues |
| Androstenedione | A hormone that converts into testosterone; high levels can cause excessive hair growth |
| SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) | A protein that controls how much active testosterone is available in the blood |
| 17-alpha-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) | Reflects adrenal gland function; abnormal levels may point to a genetic condition affecting hormone production |
Why is a Hirsutism Evaluation Panel Done?
A doctor may order a hirsutism screening test for several reasons. The sections below explain the common triggers and what this test can help identify.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms are typical reasons a doctor may request a hirsutism blood test panel:
- Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, or back
- Acne that is persistent or severe
- Thinning hair on the scalp
- Deepening of the voice
- Irregular or absent menstrual periods
- Noticeable increase in muscle mass
- Reduction in breast size
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This hirsutism panel test can assist in identifying several underlying conditions, including:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal condition that causes irregular periods, excess hair growth, and sometimes small cysts on the ovaries
- Non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCAH), a genetic condition that affects how the adrenal glands produce hormones
- Cushing syndrome, where the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol
- Androgen-secreting tumours (rare)
- Ovarian hyperthecosis, where ovarian cells overproduce androgens
- Adrenal disorders and certain medication-related hormonal changes
- Idiopathic hirsutism, where no identifiable hormonal cause is found
Hirsutism Evaluation Panel for Chronic Disease Monitoring
Women with conditions such as PCOS or congenital adrenal hyperplasia may need periodic repeat testing. Doctors use the hirsutism profile to track how hormone levels change over time and to assess how well a treatment plan is working.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Preparing for this test is straightforward. The steps below will help you feel ready on the day of collection.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required before this test. You can eat and drink normally beforehand. However, always check with your doctor for any specific instructions, especially if other tests are being ordered at the same time.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
- Schedule your blood draw between 6 and 10 a.m., as hormone levels shift throughout the day
- If you are menstruating, try to collect the sample between day 4 and day 10 of your cycle (the follicular phase)
- Inform your doctor about all medications, oral contraceptives, or supplements you are taking, as these can affect results
- Drink enough water before your appointment to stay well hydrated
- Avoid strenuous physical activity on the day of collection
Step-by-Step Procedure
Here is what typically happens during a blood sample collection:
- A trained phlebotomist (blood collection specialist) will ask you to sit comfortably and locate a suitable vein, usually in the inner elbow area.
- The skin at the collection site is cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
- A small needle is used to draw a blood sample from the vein. You may feel a brief, mild sting.
- Once the sample is collected, the needle is removed and a small bandage is applied to the site.
- The blood is carefully separated and prepared for dispatch to the laboratory.
- Your sample is processed in the lab, and your report is made available within 3 to 5 days.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
- Time of sample collection (early morning is preferred)
- Phase of the menstrual cycle at the time of testing
- Use of oral contraceptives, steroids, or other hormonal medications
- Obesity, which can raise androgen levels independently
- Recent physical or emotional stress
- Dehydration
Understanding Your Hirsutism Evaluation Panel Results
Your doctor will review your results alongside your symptoms, age, and health history. The table below shows general reference ranges for adult women.
| Parameter | Normal Range | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| DHEAS | 35 to 430 | µg/dL |
| Total Testosterone | 15 to 70 | ng/dL |
| Free Testosterone | 0.04 to 4.2 | pg/mL |
| Androstenedione | 30 to 200 | ng/dL |
| SHBG | 18 to 144 | nmol/L |
| 17-OHP (Follicular phase) | 20 to 100 | ng/dL |
| 17-OHP (Luteal phase) | 100 to 500 | ng/dL |
These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
Certain situations can alter how results are read. Your doctor will take these into account during interpretation.
Obesity can independently raise androgen production, which may worsen hirsutism and affect test readings. SHBG levels are naturally higher during pregnancy, as placental tissue also produces this protein; established reference ranges for pregnant women are not available. Oral contraceptives raise SHBG levels, which in turn lowers free testosterone values.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
These general wellness tips may support hormonal balance:
- Maintain a healthy body weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity, as weight management can improve androgen levels in women with PCOS.
- Avoid smoking, as it may interfere with hormonal health and the management of hirsutism.
- Discuss with your doctor before starting or stopping any medications that could affect hormone levels.
Lupin Diagnostics Hirsutism Evaluation Panel Price and Home Collection
This test is available at Lupin Diagnostics, with home collection offered across multiple locations. The hirsutism panel test price varies by city.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| Mumbai | ₹5,000 |
| Bangalore | ₹5,000 |
| Pune | ₹5,000 |
| Bhopal | ₹5,000 |
| Indore | ₹5,000 |
| Chennai | ₹5,000 |
| Hyderabad | ₹5,000 |
| Kolkata | ₹5,000 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website
- Choose your city and preferred time slot
- Opt for home sample collection by a certified phlebotomist, or visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time
Home Collection
Lupin Diagnostics offers home sample collection for the hirsutism profile, making it convenient to get tested without visiting a centre. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories staffed by experienced professionals. Digital reports are delivered directly to you via email or WhatsApp.
Frequently Asked Questions
A hirsutism evaluation panel measures androgen hormone levels to help identify the cause of excessive hair growth in women. It is commonly used to investigate conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), adrenal disorders, and rare androgen-producing tumours when a clinical examination alone is not sufficient.
No, fasting is not required before the hirsutism evaluation panel. You can eat and drink normally before the test. However, it is important to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking, as some may influence hormone levels.
An early morning blood sample, typically collected between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., is preferred because androgen levels are naturally higher during this period. For menstruating women, testing is usually recommended between days 4 and 10 of the menstrual cycle for the most reliable results.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of elevated androgen levels associated with hirsutism. Other possible causes include non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal disorders, and, less commonly, androgen-secreting tumours.
Although the hirsutism evaluation panel is primarily designed for women with excessive hair growth, it may occasionally be ordered for men when a hormonal imbalance or endocrine disorder is suspected. Your doctor will determine whether the test is appropriate.
The frequency of repeat testing depends on your diagnosis, treatment plan, and your doctor's recommendations. Women receiving treatment for hormone-related conditions may undergo periodic testing to monitor hormone levels and evaluate treatment effectiveness.
If your results fall outside the normal range, discuss them with your doctor. Abnormal hormone levels alone do not confirm a specific diagnosis. Your doctor will interpret the findings alongside your symptoms, medical history, and any additional tests that may be required.
Hirsutism Evaluation Panel Test: Uses, Preparation, Results & Cost
