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A Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulphate test measures the levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) in the blood. DHEAS is a steroid hormone that is present in both males and females. It is primarily produced by the adrenal glands, with smaller amounts produced by ovaries in females and testicles in males. 

DHEAS plays a role in developing male secondary sexual characteristics at puberty. The body can convert it into more potent androgens like testosterone and androstenedione. Also, it can be converted into the female hormone estrogen. 

A Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulphate test helps diagnose and differentiate certain endocrine disorders, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of hormonal balance in the body.

The Testosterone Free test measures the level of unattached or free testosterone in the blood. It is called free testosterone or free T because it is not attached to other molecules, especially proteins. The body actively uses free testosterone as signaling molecules that regulate metabolism and other cellular functions.

The Sex Hormone Binding Globulin test measures the level of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) protein in the blood and is most often used to help evaluate you for testosterone deficiency or excess. SHBG is produced by the liver and it helps in the transport and regulation of sex hormones, primarily testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and estrogen. 

When the SHBG protein binds to sex hormones, your tissues can't use those hormones. Your tissues can only use sex hormones that are "free," which means they aren't attached to proteins, such as SHBG. Changes in SHBG levels can affect the amount of hormone used by the body’s tissues. 

In men, SHBG binds to sex hormones like testosterone and regulates their levels in the blood. When SHBG levels are higher , less free testosterone is available for the body to use. However, when SHBG levels are lower, more free testosterone is available. This balance is important for maintaining overall health and hormonal function in men. 

In women, SHBG plays an integral role in regulating the levels of bioavailable male sex hormones (androgens) and estrogens circulating throughout the body. SHBG has a higher affinity for the androgens testosterone and DHT, and so with the low SHBG, women may have signs and symptoms related to androgen excess.

The Androstenedione test measures the level of androstenedione in the blood. Androstenedione, an androgenic hormone, is often called a "male" sex hormone'. Although it is found in both men and women. It is important for sexual development and helps the body produce other key hormones like testosterone and estrogen.

Androstenedione is made by the adrenal glands in both sexes, the ovaries in females, and the testicles in males. Its production is controlled by two hormones from the pituitary gland, luteinizing hormone and adrenocorticotropic hormone. Firstly, luteinizing hormone (LH) stimulates the ovaries and testicles. Secondly, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulates the adrenal glands.

The amount of androstenedione in the blood can vary depending on the time of day and, in women, during the menstrual cycle. Due to this, doctors may use this test alongside others such as testosterone or 17-hydroxyprogesterone to get a clearer picture of hormonal health.

The Testosterone Total test measures the level of testosterone hormone available in the blood. This includes two forms of testosterone: free testosterone and bound testosterone. Bound testosterone is attached to proteins, mainly to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and albumin. It cannot enter the body's cells or directly affect tissues and organs. Instead, it acts as a store of testosterone in the blood and can be released when the body needs it. Free testosterone is not attached to any proteins and is the active form. It can easily transport to various tissues, and affects key functions like sex drive, muscle growth, bone strength, and energy levels.

The 17 Alpha Hydroxy Progesterone test measures the level of 17-hydroxyprogesterone in the blood. It is an important intermediate in the production of cortisol, an essential hormone for stress response, metabolism and immune function. This test is used to detect congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), a genetic disorder that affects the hormone production in the adrenal glands. 

By measuring the levels of 17-OHP , doctors can identify the abnormalities in the hormone production that may lead to conditions such as CAH, PCOS, or adrenal tumors.