Comprehensive Guide to Bloodwork

At Etalaze, we're dedicated to providing the highest quality, science-based care to men worldwide. Our goal is to ensure that no man suffers from low testosterone or hormonal issues due to a lack of quality care. With a focus on hormones, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), and men's health, we strive to keep you safe, healthy, and happy throughout your life.

Understanding Bloodwork

Bloodwork is an essential tool in diagnosing and monitoring various health conditions. Whether you're on TRT or considering it, regular blood tests are crucial for tracking your health and adjusting treatments as needed. We recommend testing around 3-4 times per year, with quarterly checks being ideal.

Key Blood Markers for TRT

Androgens/Hormone Category:

• Testosterone + Free Testosterone: These tests help us understand your testosterone levels. Free testosterone, the bioavailable form, is crucial for cellular effects across the body. High total testosterone with low free T may indicate issues with SHBG or albumin, which can be managed with supplements like boron.
• E2 (Estradiol): Monitoring E2 is vital as higher body fat can lead to increased aromatase activity, converting testosterone to estrogen. High E2 levels can negatively impact the HPT axis, lowering testosterone levels.
• LH/FSH: These gonadotropins indicate how well your hypothalamus or pituitary gland signals for testosterone production.
• SHBG + Albumin: These proteins bind testosterone, affecting free T levels. High levels can result in low free testosterone.
• Prolactin: This hormone provides insights into pituitary gland health. Abnormal levels can cause various health issues, including infertility and sexual dysfunction.
• Cortisol: Cortisol regulates blood sugar, memory, and blood pressure. Checking its levels ensures it follows the usual circadian rhythm.
• Vitamin D: Essential for bone health and calcium control.
• ACTH: Regulates cortisol levels, which are crucial for stress response and metabolism.
• DHEA-S + Pregnenolone: Neurosteroids affected by TRT, important for cognitive function.
• DHT: Monitoring DHT is important for those experiencing hair loss on TRT.
• IGF-1/GH: These markers indicate growth hormone activity, essential for tissue and bone growth.

Heart Health Category:

• C-Reactive Protein (CRP): A marker for inflammation, linked to cardiovascular diseases.
• Cholesterol + Triglycerides + HDL + LDL: Essential for heart health, with HDL being particularly important for reducing heart disease risk.
• Apolipoprotein A1 / B + ratio: A powerful predictor of heart disease risk.
• Homocysteine: High levels are associated with increased risk of blood clots, heart attack, and stroke.

Kidney Health Category:

• Kidney Function Tests: These include urea, creatinine, and eGFR, which indicate kidney health and function.
• Cystatin C: Used if other kidney values are abnormal, indicating glomerular filtration rate impairment.

Liver Health:

• Liver Function Test (LFTs): Includes AST, ALT, Bilirubin, GGT, and Total Protein, indicating liver health and function.

Thyroid Health:

• TSH/FT3/FT4/Reverse T3: These tests assess thyroid function, crucial for metabolism regulation.

Prostate Health:

• PSA: Measures a protein produced by the prostate gland, which can indicate prostate cancer risk.

General Testing Category:

• Full Blood Count: Essential for checking red blood cell levels and morphology.
• Vit B12: Important for DNA, blood, and nerve cell health.
• Creatine Kinase: Indicates muscle turnover, particularly important for those who train intensely.
• Iron Studies: Ensures adequate iron levels, which can be affected by TRT.
• Fasting Glucose + HbA1c: Measures insulin sensitivity and diabetes risk.
• Zinc: Necessary for immune function, growth, and wound healing.

Regular bloodwork is crucial for maintaining optimal health, especially for those on TRT. Monitoring these markers helps us ensure that your treatment is effective and that any potential issues are addressed promptly. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to support your health journey every step of the way.

Stay healthy and take care!