65. What blood test may be ordered in a patient with hirsutism?
Answer: D
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) is the blood test that may be ordered in a patient with hirsutism.
Hirsutism, characterized by excessive hair growth in women, can be linked to hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated androgens. The measurement of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) is crucial as it helps assess adrenal gland function and androgen levels, which are often involved in hirsutism.
A) Prolactin
Prolactin is primarily associated with lactation and reproductive functions, and while abnormal levels may indicate certain endocrine disorders, it is not a primary test for evaluating hirsutism. Thus, ordering a prolactin test would not directly address the underlying causes related to excess hair growth.
B) Basic metabolic panel with a urine test
A basic metabolic panel provides information about electrolyte balance, kidney function, and blood glucose levels, but it does not measure hormone levels related to hirsutism. Therefore, it is not relevant for diagnosing or managing this condition.
C) Complete blood test with differential
A complete blood count (CBC) with differential assesses overall health and detects various disorders such as infections or blood conditions but does not evaluate hormonal levels. As such, it would not be useful in the context of investigating hirsutism.
D) Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS)
DHEAS is a key steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and is often elevated in conditions associated with hirsutism. Testing for DHEAS can help identify adrenal hyperplasia or other disorders contributing to excess androgen production, making it the most relevant test for patients with this condition.
Conclusion
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) is the most pertinent blood test for evaluating hirsutism, as it directly relates to the androgen levels involved in this condition. In contrast, the other options do not provide the necessary hormonal insight required for understanding and managing hirsutism effectively, thereby underscoring the importance of DHEAS testing in such cases.