Name of the Procedure:

Chorionic Gonadotropin Stimulation Panel; Testosterone Response

Summary

The Chorionic Gonadotropin Stimulation Panel is a diagnostic test used to evaluate testosterone production in response to human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) stimulation. This test involves drawing multiple blood samples to measure testosterone levels.

Purpose

This procedure helps in diagnosing conditions related to low testosterone production, such as hypogonadism. The goal is to assess the functional capacity of the testes to produce testosterone when stimulated by hCG.

Indications

• Symptoms of low testosterone (e.g., fatigue, decreased libido, muscle weakness)
• Delayed puberty in adolescents
• Infertility evaluation in men
• Confirming a suspected diagnosis of hypogonadism

Preparation

• No specific fasting required.
• Patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking.
• May require baseline blood tests.

Procedure Description

1. Baseline Test: An initial blood sample is taken to measure baseline testosterone levels.
2. hCG Administration: An injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is administered.
3. Blood Sampling: Three blood samples are collected over a designated period (e.g., several days) to measure testosterone response.
   • Each sample will be tested for testosterone levels (Tested using 84403 x 2 on 3 pooled blood samples).
4. Analysis: The samples are analyzed to determine the testosterone response to hCG stimulation.

Duration

The entire process spans several days, with blood draws typically taking less than 30 minutes each.

Setting

• Outpatient clinic or hospital laboratory.

Personnel

• Phlebotomist to draw blood.
• Endocrinologist or primary care physician to interpret results.

Risks and Complications

• Minor bruising or infection at the injection site.
• Rare allergic reaction to hCG.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of testosterone production issues.
• Helps tailor appropriate treatment plans.
• Results typically available within a few days after the final blood draw.

Recovery

• No significant recovery time needed.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after blood draws.

Alternatives

• Baseline testosterone measurement without stimulation.
• Other hormonal tests and imaging studies.
• Each alternative has different levels of diagnostic accuracy and invasiveness.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort from blood draws and hCG injection.
• Pain is usually minimal and short-lived.
• Instructions provided for managing minor side effects, if any.