Estrogens: Why It Is Done
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Why It Is Done
A test for estrogen is done to:
- Help detect fetal birth defects (especially Down syndrome) during pregnancy. When the test for estriol is combined with alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), it is called a triple screen test. When the amount of a hormone called inhibin A is also measured along with estriol, AFP, and hCG, the test is called a quad marker screen. Other blood tests and fetal ultrasound may be done as well.
- Evaluate estrogen-producing tumors of the ovaries in girls before menstruation starts and in women after menopause.
- Explain abnormal sexual characteristics in men, such as enlarged breasts (gynecomastia). This test can also help detect the presence of estrogen-producing tumors growing in the testicles.
- Monitor therapy with fertility medicines.
| Last updated: | May 14, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Sandy Jocoy, RN |
| Reviewed By: | Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine, Siobhan M. Dolan, MD, MPH - Reproductive Genetics |
| Editors: | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Tracy Landauer |
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