What are the experiments for endocrine function identification

The endocrine function identification experiment mainly includes five methods: hormone level detection, dynamic function test, imaging examination, gene detection, and antibody detection.

1. Hormone level detection:

measures specific hormone concentrations through blood, urine, or saliva samples. Common items include the detection of thyroid function parameters FT3, FT4, TSH, TGAb, TPOAb, six sex hormones FSH, LH, PRL, E2, P, T, and cortisol circadian rhythm. Attention should be paid to the timing of blood collection, such as monitoring growth hormone during deep sleep at night and measuring aldosterone in a supine position.

2. Dynamic functional testing:

evaluates endocrine gland reserve function through drug stimulation or inhibition. The glucose tolerance test OGTT can determine the function of pancreatic beta cells, the thyroid stimulating hormone releasing hormone TRH stimulation test is used to differentiate hypothalamic pituitary lesions, and the dexamethasone suppression test can distinguish the etiology of Cushing's syndrome. Before the experiment, it is necessary to strictly follow the doctor's advice to fast or stop using interfering drugs.

3. Imaging examination:

Ultrasound can observe the morphology of thyroid nodules, CT/MRI can detect pituitary microadenomas or adrenal masses, and nuclear scanning is suitable for parathyroid localization. Special examinations such as octreotide imaging have significant diagnostic value for neuroendocrine tumors, and radioactive tracers need to be injected before the examination.

4. Genetic testing:

targets hereditary endocrine disorders such as multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) series, congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), etc. To detect pathogenic gene mutations such as RET and CYP21A2 using second-generation sequencing technology, peripheral blood or oral mucosal cell samples need to be collected.

5. Antibody testing:

is used for the diagnosis of autoimmune endocrine diseases. It includes islet cell antibody ICA and glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody GADA to screen type 1 diabetes, and thyroid peroxidase antibody TPOAb to evaluate Hashimoto thyroiditis. Positive antibodies indicate the need for long-term follow-up monitoring of target organ function. During the first 3 days of endocrine examination, vigorous exercise and high-fat diet should be avoided, and some items require fasting for 8-12 hours. Hormonal drugs may interfere with the results, and it is necessary to communicate the medication situation with the doctor in advance. Thyroid function testing is recommended to avoid the acute infection period, and female sex hormone testing should indicate the day of the menstrual cycle. If symptoms of hypoglycemia such as palpitations and sweating occur during the dynamic testing process, they should be immediately terminated and medical staff should be informed. Drink plenty of water after the examination to promote the excretion of contrast agents. It is recommended that the genetic test results be interpreted by a genetic counselor. Regular check ups of hormone levels can help detect endocrine dysfunction early on, and it is recommended to screen fasting blood glucose and thyroid function annually for people over 40 years old.