Ulta Lab Tests

Hormone Therapy Safety - Essential Lab Panel

The Hormone Therapy Safety Essential Lab Panel provides a focused safety review for people using or considering hormone therapy, including estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, compounded hormones, hormone pellets, creams, patches, gels, or injections. It evaluates blood counts, liver and kidney function, urine health, cholesterol, blood sugar, inflammation, iron status, thyroid function, vitamin D, and magnesium for provider-guided hormone therapy monitoring.

Blood, Serum, Random
Phlebotomist
Hormone Safety Panel, Hormone Therapy Monitoring Panel, HRT Safety Lab Panel, Bioidentical Hormone Safety Panel, Hormone Checkup Panel, HRT Blood Test Panel, Hormone Therapy Wellness Panel

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: CBC, CBC includes Differential and Platelets, CBC/PLT w/DIFF, Complete Blood Count (includes Differential and Platelets)

NOTE: Ulta Lab Tests provides CBC test results from Quest Diagnostics as they are reported. Often, different biomarker results are made available at different time intervals. When reporting the results, Ulta Lab Tests denotes those biomarkers not yet reported as 'pending' for every biomarker the test might report. Only biomarkers Quest Diagnostics observes are incorporated and represented in the final CBC test results provided by Ulta Lab Tests.

Absolute Band Neutrophils (Only Reported If Detected)

Immature forms of neutrophils are called neutrophilic band cells. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that is responsible for much of the body's protection against infection. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream to travel to wherever they are needed. Large numbers of immature forms of neutrophils, called neutrophilic band cells, are produced by the bone marrow when the demand is high.

Absolute Basophils

Basophils normally constitute 1% or less of the total white blood cell count but may increase or decrease in certain diseases and are thought to be involved in allergic reactions.

Absolute Blasts (Only Reported If Detected)

Blasts are immature forms of white blood cells.

Absolute Eosinophils

Eosinophils (eos) respond to infections caused by parasites and play a role in allergic reactions (hypersensitivities)

Absolute Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are white blood cells that exist in both the blood and the lymphatic system. They are divided into three types. The B lymphocytes (B cells) are antibody-producing cells that are essential for acquired, antigen-specific immune responses. The second type are T lymphocytes (T cells) some T cells help the body distinguish between "self" and "non-self" antigens while others initiate and control the extent of an immune response, boosting it as needed and then slowing it as the condition resolves. Other types of T cells directly attack and neutralize virus-infected or cancerous cells. The third type are natural killer cells (NK cells) that directly attack and kill abnormal cells such as cancer cells or those infected with a virus.

Absolute Metamyelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Metamyelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Absolute Monocytes

Monocytes (mono), similar to neutrophils, move to an area of infection and engulf and destroy bacteria. They are associated more often with chronic rather than acute infections. They are also involved in tissue repair and other functions involving the immune system.

Absolute Myelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Myelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Absolute Neutrophils

Neutrophils (neu) normally make up the largest number of circulating WBCs. They move into an area of damaged or infected tissue, where they engulf and destroy bacteria or sometimes fungi. Young neutrophils, recently released into circulation, are called bands.

Absolute Nucleated Rbc (Only Reported If Detected)

Nucleated Red Blood Cells (nRBC) ) the presence of NRBCs in the adult blood is usually associated with malignant neoplasms, bone marrow diseases, and other serious disorders.

Absolute Promyelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Promyelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Band Neutrophils (Only Reported If Detected)

Immature forms of neutrophils are called neutrophilic band cells. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that is responsible for much of the body's protection against infection. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream to travel to wherever they are needed. Large numbers of immature forms of neutrophils, called neutrophilic band cells, are produced by the bone marrow when the demand is high.

Basophils

Basophils normally constitute 1% or less of the total white blood cell count but may increase or decrease in certain diseases and are thought to be involved in allergic reactions.

Blasts (Only Reported If Detected)

Blasts are immature forms of white blood cells.

Eosinophils

Eosinophils are specialized white blood cells produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream, where they normally make up only 0–6 % of circulating leukocytes. Their cytoplasm is packed with reddish‑orange granules that contain potent enzymes (e.g., major basic protein, eosinophil cationic protein) and inflammatory mediators. When the immune system detects large, multicellular invaders—such as helminth (worm) parasites—eosinophils migrate out of the blood and surround the pathogen, releasing these granule contents to damage the parasite’s outer surface and aid its destruction. Beyond parasite defense, eosinophils act as key orchestras of the allergic response. They accumulate in tissues exposed to allergens (airways in asthma, skin in eczema, GI tract in eosinophilic esophagitis) and secrete cytokines and lipid mediators that amplify inflammation, recruit additional immune cells, and contribute to symptoms like swelling, mucus production, and itching. Because of this pro‑inflammatory role, persistently elevated eosinophil counts—termed eosinophilia—can signal allergic disorders, drug hypersensitivity, or certain autoimmune and malignant conditions. Conversely, counts drop toward zero after glucocorticoid therapy or in acute stress states, reflecting the cells’ sensitivity to hormonal and immune regulation.

Hematocrit

Hematocrit is a blood test that measures the percentage of the volume of whole blood that is made up of red blood cells. This measurement depends on the number of red blood cells and the size of red blood cells.

Hemoglobin

Serum hemoglobin is a blood test that measures the level of free hemoglobin in the liquid part of the blood (the serum). Free hemoglobin is the hemoglobin outside of the red blood cells. Most of the hemoglobin is found inside the red blood cells, not in the serum.

Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are white blood cells that exist in both the blood and the lymphatic system. They are divided into three types. The B lymphocytes (B cells) are antibody-producing cells that are essential for acquired, antigen-specific immune responses. The second type are T lymphocytes (T cells) some T cells help the body distinguish between "self" and "non-self" antigens while others initiate and control the extent of an immune response, boosting it as needed and then slowing it as the condition resolves. Other types of T cells directly attack and neutralize virus-infected or cancerous cells. The third type are natural killer cells (NK cells) that directly attack and kill abnormal cells such as cancer cells or those infected with a virus.

MCH

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) is a calculation of the average amount of oxygen-carrying hemoglobin inside a red blood cell.

MCHC

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) is a calculation of the average percentage of hemoglobin inside a red cell.

MCV

Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is a measurement of the average size of RBCs.

Metamyelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Metamyelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Monocytes

Monocytes (mono), similar to neutrophils, move to an area of infection and engulf and destroy bacteria. They are associated more often with chronic rather than acute infections. They are also involved in tissue repair and other functions involving the immune system.

MPV

Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) - When it indicates average size of platelets are small; older platelets are generally smaller than younger ones and a low MPV may mean that a condition is affecting the production of platelets by the bone marrow. When it indicates a high number of larger, younger platelets in the blood; this may be due to the bone marrow producing and releasing platelets rapidly into circulation.

Myelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Myelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Neutrophils

Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that is responsible for much of the body's protection against infection. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream to travel to wherever they are needed.

Nucleated Rbc (Only Reported If Detected)

Nucleated Red Blood Cells (nRBC) ) the presence of NRBCs in the adult blood is usually associated with malignant neoplasms, bone marrow diseases, and other serious disorders.

Platelet Count

A platelet count is a test to measure how many platelets you have in your blood. Platelets help the blood clot. They are smaller than red or white blood cells.

Promyelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Promyelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

RDW

Red cell distribution width (RDW), which may be included in a CBC, is a calculation of the variation in the size of RBCs.

Reactive Lymphocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Lymphocytes are white blood cells that exist in both the blood and the lymphatic system. They are divided into three types. The B lymphocytes (B cells) are antibody-producing cells that are essential for acquired, antigen-specific immune responses. The second type are T lymphocytes (T cells) some T cells help the body distinguish between "self" and "non-self" antigens while others initiate and control the extent of an immune response, boosting it as needed and then slowing it as the condition resolves. Other types of T cells directly attack and neutralize virus-infected or cancerous cells. The third type are natural killer cells (NK cells) that directly attack and kill abnormal cells such as cancer cells or those infected with a virus.

Red Blood Cell Count

An RBC count is a blood test that tells how many red blood cells (RBCs) you have. RBCs contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen. How much oxygen your body tissues get depends on how many RBCs you have and how well they work.

White Blood Cell Count

A WBC count is a test to measure the number of white blood cells (WBCs) in the blood. WBCs help fight infections. They are also called leukocytes. There are five major types of white blood cells: basophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes (T cells and B cells), monocytes and neutrophils

Also known as: Chem 12, Chemistry Panel, Chemistry Screen, CMP, Complete Metabolic Panel, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel CMP, SMA 12, SMA 20

Albumin

Albumin is a protein made by the liver. A serum albumin test measures the amount of this protein in the clear liquid portion of the blood.

Albumin/Globulin Ratio

The ratio of albumin to globulin (A/G ratio) is calculated from measured albumin and calculated globulin (total protein - albumin). Normally, there is a little more albumin than globulins, giving a normal A/G ratio of slightly over 1. Because disease states affect the relative amounts of albumin and globulin, the A/G ratio may provide a clue as to the cause of the change in protein levels. A low A/G ratio may reflect overproduction of globulins, such as seen in multiple myeloma or autoimmune diseases, or underproduction of albumin, such as may occur with cirrhosis, or selective loss of albumin from the circulation, as may occur with kidney disease (nephrotic syndrome). A high A/G ratio suggests underproduction of immunoglobulins as may be seen in some genetic deficiencies and in some leukemias. More specific tests, such as liver enzyme tests and serum protein electrophoresis, must be performed to make an accurate diagnosis. With a low total protein that is due to plasma expansion (dilution of the blood), the A/G ratio will typically be normal because both albumin and globulin will be diluted to the same extent.

Alkaline Phosphatase

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is a protein found in all body tissues. Tissues with higher amounts of ALP include the liver, bile ducts, and bone.

Alt

Alanine transaminase (ALT) is an enzyme found in the highest amounts in the liver. Injury to the liver results in release of the substance into the blood.

AST

AST (aspartate aminotransferase) is an enzyme found in high amounts in liver, heart, and muscle cells. It is also found in lesser amounts in other tissues.

Bilirubin, Total

Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, a fluid made by the liver. A small amount of older red blood cells are replaced by new blood cells every day. Bilirubin is left after these older blood cells are removed. The liver helps break down bilirubin so that it can be removed from the body in the stool.

Bun/Creatinine Ratio

A ratio between a person’s BUN and blood creatinine to help determine what is causing these concentrations to be higher than normal. The ratio of BUN to creatinine is usually between 10:1 and 20:1. An increased ratio may be due to a condition that causes a decrease in the flow of blood to the kidneys, such as congestive heart failure or dehydration. It may also be seen with increased protein, from gastrointestinal bleeding, or increased protein in the diet. The ratio may be decreased with liver disease (due to decrease in the formation of urea) and malnutrition.

Calcium

You have more calcium in your body than any other mineral. Calcium has many important jobs. The body stores more than 99 percent of its calcium in the bones and teeth to help make and keep them strong. The rest is throughout the body in blood, muscle and the fluid between cells. Your body needs calcium to help muscles and blood vessels contract and expand, to secrete hormones and enzymes and to send messages through the nervous system.

Carbon Dioxide

CO2 is carbon dioxide. Measures the amount of carbon dioxide in the liquid part of your blood, called the serum. In the body, most of the CO2 is in the form of a substance called bicarbonate (HCO3-). Therefore, the CO2 blood test is really a measure of your blood bicarbonate level.

Chloride

Chloride is a type of electrolyte. It works with other electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and carbon dioxide (CO2). These substances help keep the proper balance of body fluids and maintain the body's acid-base balance. This is a measure of the amount of chloride in the fluid portion (serum) of the blood.

Creatinine

The creatinine blood test measures the level of creatinine in the blood. This test is done to see how well your kidneys work.

Egfr African American

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters in the kidneys that filter waste from the blood.

Egfr Non-Afr. American

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters in the kidneys that filter waste from the blood.

GFR-AFRICAN AMERICAN

GFR-NON AFRICAN AMERICAN

Globulin

Globulins is the collective term for most blood proteins other than albumin. Identifying the types of globulins can help diagnose certain disorders. Globulins are roughly divided into three groups: alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. Gamma globulines include various types of antibodies such as immunoglobulins (Ig) M, G, and A.

Glucose

A blood glucose test measures the amount of a sugar called glucose in a sample of your blood. Glucose is a major source of energy for most cells of the body, including those in the brain. The hormones insulin and glucagon help control blood glucose levels.

Potassium

Potassium is a mineral that the body needs to work normally. It helps nerves and muscles communicate. It also helps move nutrients into cells and waste products out of cells. A diet rich in potassium helps to offset some of sodium's harmful effects on blood pressure.

Protein, Total

The total protein is the total amount of two classes of proteins, albumin and globulin that are found in the fluid portion of your blood. Proteins are important parts of all cells and tissues. Your albumin helps prevent fluid from leaking out of blood vessels and your globulins are an important part of your immune system.

Sodium

Sodium is a substance that the body needs to work properly it is vital to normal body processes, including nerve and muscle function

Urea Nitrogen (Bun)

BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen. Urea nitrogen is what forms when protein breaks down. BUN measures the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood.

Ferritin

Ferritin is a protein found inside cells that stores iron so your body can use it later. A ferritin test indirectly measures the amount of iron in your blood. The amount of ferritin in your blood (serum ferritin level) is directly related to the amount of iron stored in your body.

Also known as: A1c, Glycated Hemoglobin, Glycohemoglobin, Glycosylated Hemoglobin, HA1c, HbA1c, Hemoglobin A1c, Hemoglobin A1c HgbA1C, Hgb A1c

HEMOGLOBIN A1C

The A1c test evaluates the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last 2 to 3 months. It does this by measuring the concentration of glycated (also often called glycosylated) hemoglobin A1c. Hemoglobin is an oxygen-transporting protein found inside red blood cells (RBCs). There are several types of normal hemoglobin, but the predominant form – about 95-98% – is hemoglobin A. As glucose circulates in the blood, some of it spontaneously binds to hemoglobin A. The hemoglobin molecules with attached glucose are called glycated hemoglobin. The higher the concentration of glucose in the blood, the more glycated hemoglobin is formed. Once the glucose binds to the hemoglobin, it remains there for the life of the red blood cell – normally about 120 days. The predominant form of glycated hemoglobin is referred to as HbA1c or A1c. A1c is produced on a daily basis and slowly cleared from the blood as older RBCs die and younger RBCs (with non-glycated hemoglobin) take their place. This test is used to monitor treatment in someone who has been diagnosed with diabetes. It helps to evaluate how well their glucose levels have been controlled by treatment over time. This test may be used to screen for and diagnose diabetes or risk of developing diabetes. In 2010, clinical practice guidelines from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) stated that A1c may be added to fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) as an option for diabetes screening and diagnosis. For monitoring purposes, an A1c of less than 7% indicates good glucose control and a lower risk of diabetic complications for the majority of diabetics. However, in 2012, the ADA and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) issued a position statement recommending that the management of glucose control in type 2 diabetes be more "patient-centered." Data from recent studies have shown that low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause complications and that people with risk of severe hypoglycemia, underlying health conditions, complications, and a limited life expectancy do not necessarily benefit from having a stringent goal of less than 7% for their A1c. The statement recommends that people work closely with their doctor to select a goal that reflects each person's individual health status and that balances risks and benefits.

Also known as: C-Reactive Protein, Cardio CRP, Cardio hs-CRP, CRP, High Sensitivity CRP, High-sensitivity C-reactive Protein, High-sensitivity CRP, Highly Sensitive CRP, hsCRP, Ultra-sensitive CRP

Hs Crp

A high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) test may be used by itself, in combination with other cardiac risk markers, or in combination with a lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) test that evaluates vascular inflammation. The hs-CRP test accurately detects low concentrations of C-reactive protein to help predict a healthy person's risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). High-sensitivity CRP is promoted by some as a test for determining a person's risk level for CVD, heart attacks, and strokes. The current thinking is that hs-CRP can play a role in the evaluation process before a person develops one of these health problems.

Also known as: Iron and TIBC, Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity TIBC, TIBC

% Saturation

Iron Binding Capacity

Total iron binding capacity (TIBC) is a blood test to see if you may have too much or too little iron in the blood. Iron moves through the blood attached to a protein called transferrin. This test helps your doctor know how well that protein can carry iron in the blood.

Iron, Total

Iron is a mineral that our bodies need for many functions. For example, iron is part of hemoglobin, a protein which carries oxygen from our lungs throughout our bodies. It helps our muscles store and use oxygen. Iron is also part of many other proteins and enzymes. Your body needs the right amount of iron. If you have too little iron, you may develop iron deficiency anemia. Causes of low iron levels include blood loss, poor diet, or an inability to absorb enough iron from foods. People at higher risk of having too little iron are young children and women who are pregnant or have periods.

Also known as: Cholesterol, HDL,Fasting Lipids,Cholesterol, LDL, Fasting Lipids, Lipid Panel (fasting), Lipid Profile (fasting), Lipids

Chol/HDLC Ratio

Cholesterol, Total

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that occurs naturally in all parts of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to work properly. But if you have too much in your blood, it can combine with other substances in the blood and stick to the walls of your arteries. This is called plaque. Plaque can narrow your arteries or even block them. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase your risk of heart disease. Your cholesterol levels tend to rise as you get older. There are usually no signs or symptoms that you have high blood cholesterol, but it can be detected with a blood test. You are likely to have high cholesterol if members of your family have it, if you are overweight or if you eat a lot of fatty foods. You can lower your cholesterol by exercising more and eating more fruits and vegetables. You also may need to take medicine to lower your cholesterol.

HDL Cholesterol

LDL-Cholesterol

Non HDL Cholesterol

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a form of fat and a major source of energy for the body. This test measures the amount of triglycerides in the blood. Most triglycerides are found in fat (adipose) tissue, but some triglycerides circulate in the blood to provide fuel for muscles to work. After a person eats, an increased level of triglycerides is found in the blood as the body converts the energy not needed right away into fat. Triglycerides move via the blood from the gut to adipose tissue for storage. In between meals, triglycerides are released from fat tissue to be used as an energy source for the body. Most triglycerides are carried in the blood by lipoproteins called very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). High levels of triglycerides in the blood are associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), although the reason for this is not well understood. Certain factors can contribute to high triglyceride levels and to risk of CVD, including lack of exercise, being overweight, smoking cigarettes, consuming excess alcohol, and medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease.

Magnesium

Vitamin D, 25-Oh, D2

Vitamin D2 ((ergocalciferol,) is found in fortified foods and in most vitamin preparations and supplements. Vitamin D comes from two sources: endogenous, which is produced in the skin on exposure to sunlight, and exogenous, which is ingested in foods and supplements. The D2 form is found in fortified foods and in most vitamin preparations and supplements. Vitamin D2 is effective when it is converted by the liver and the kidney into the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.

Vitamin D, 25-Oh, D3

Vitamin D3 (cholecalcifero) which comes from animals. Vitamin D comes from two sources: endogenous, which is produced in the skin on exposure to sunlight, and exogenous, which is ingested in foods and supplements. Vitamin D3 is the form produced in the body and is also used in some supplements. Vitamin D3 are is converted by the liver and the kidney into the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.

Vitamin D, 25-Oh, Total

Vitamin D comes from two sources: endogenous, which is produced in the skin on exposure to sunlight, and exogenous, which is ingested in foods and supplements. The chemical structures of the types of vitamin D are slightly different, and they are named vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol, which comes from plants) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol, which comes from animals). The D2 form is found in fortified foods and in most vitamin preparations and supplements. Vitamin D3 is the form produced in the body and is also used in some supplements. Vitamin D2 and D3 are equally effective when they are converted by the liver and the kidney into the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.

Also known as: Free T4, FT4, T4 Free

T4, Free

The free T4 test is not affected by protein levels. Since free T4 is the active form of thyroxine, the free T4 test is may be a more accurate reflection of thyroid hormone function.

Also known as: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Test, Thyrotropin Test

TSH

A TSH test is a lab test that measures the amount of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland. It tells the thyroid gland to make and release thyroid hormones into the blood.

Also known as: UA, Complete, Urinalysis UA Complete, Urine Analysis, Complete

Amorphous Sediment (Only Reported If Detected)

Appearance

Bacteria

Bacteria are living things that have only one cell. Most bacteria won't hurt you - less than 1 percent of the different types make people sick. Many are helpful. Some bacteria help to digest food, destroy disease-causing cells, and give the body needed vitamins. But infectious bacteria can make you ill. They reproduce quickly in your body. Many give off chemicals called toxins, which can damage tissue and make you sick. Examples of bacteria that cause infections include Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and E. coli.

Bilirubin

Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, a fluid made by the liver. A small amount of older red blood cells are replaced by new blood cells every day. Bilirubin is left after these older blood cells are removed. The liver helps break down bilirubin so that it can be removed from the body in the stool.

Calcium Oxalate Crystals (Only Reported If Detected)

Calcium oxalate is a chemical compound that forms envelope-shaped crystals. A major constituent of human kidney stones.

Casts (Only Reported If Detected)

Urinary casts are cylindrical structures produced by the kidney and present in the urine in certain disease states. They form in the distal convoluted tubule and collecting ducts of nephrons, then dislodge and pass into the urine, where they can be detected by microscopy.

Color

Crystals (Only Reported If Detected)

Abnormal crystals may appear in urine as a result of pathology or due to normal catabolism

Glucose

A blood glucose test measures the amount of a sugar called glucose in a sample of your blood. Glucose is a major source of energy for most cells of the body, including those in the brain. The hormones insulin and glucagon help control blood glucose levels.

Granular Cast (Only Reported If Detected)

The second-most common type of cast, granular casts can result either from the breakdown of cellular casts or the inclusion of aggregates of plasma proteins (e.g., albumin) or immunoglobulin light chains. Depending on the size of inclusions, they can be classified as fine or coarse, though the distinction has no diagnostic significance. Their appearance is generally more cigar-shaped and of a higher refractive index than hyaline casts. While most often indicative of chronic renal disease, these casts, as with hyaline casts, can also be seen for a short time following strenuous exercise

Hyaline Cast

Urinary casts are tiny tube-shaped particles. Urinary casts may be made up of white blood cells, red blood cells, kidney cells, or substances such as protein or fat. The most common type of cast, hyaline casts are solidified Tamm-Horsfall mucoprotein secreted from the tubular epithelial cells of individual nephrons. Low urine flow, concentrated urine, or an acidic environment can contribute to the formation of hyaline casts, and, as such, they may be seen in normal individuals in dehydration or vigorous exercise. Hyaline casts are cylindrical and clear, with a low refractive index,

Ketones

Ketones are substances produced in the liver when fat cells break down in the blood. A serum ketone test is a measurement of how many ketones are in the blood.

Leukocyte Esterase

Leukocyte esterase is a urine test to look for white blood cells and other signs associated with infection.

Nitrite

Occult Blood

The test looks for hidden (occult) blood in a specimen sample. It can find blood even if you cannot see it yourself.

Ph

Level of acid

Protein

Body fluids contain many different proteins that serve diverse functions such as transport of nutrients, removal of toxins, control of metabolic processes, and defense against invaders. Protein electrophoresis is a method for separating these proteins based on their size and electrical charge. When body fluids are separated by electrophoresis, they form a characteristic pattern of bands of different widths and intensities, reflecting the mixture of proteins present. This pattern is divided into five fractions, called albumin, alpha 1, alpha 2, beta, and gamma. In some cases, the beta fraction is further divided into beta 1 and beta 2. Albumin, which is produced in the liver, accounts for about 60% of the protein in the blood. "Globulins" is a collective term used to refer to proteins other than albumin. With the exception of the immunoglobulins and some complement proteins, most of the globulins are also produced in the liver. Immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE) is a method used to identify abnormal bands seen on serum, urine, or CSF protein electrophoresis, as to which type of antibody (immunoglobulin) is present.

Rbc

RBCs contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen. How much oxygen your body tissues get depends on how many RBCs you have and how well they work.

Reducing Substances (Only Reported If Detected)

Renal Epithelial Cells (Only Reported If Detected)

Specific Gravity

Squamous Epithelial Cells

Transitional Epithelial (Only Reported If Detected)

Triple Phosphate Crystals (Only Reported If Detected)

Struvite stones (triple phosphate/magnesium ammonium phosphate) - about 10–15% of urinary calculi are composed of struvite (ammonium magnesium phosphate, NH4MgPO4·6H2O).[44] Struvite stones (also known as "infection stones", urease or triple-phosphate stones), form most often in the presence of infection by urea-splitting bacteria

Uric Acid Crystals (Only Reported If Detected)

Abnormal crystals may appear in urine as a result of pathology or due to normal catabolism

WBC

WBCs help fight infections. They are also called leukocytes. There are five major types of white blood cells: basophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes (T cells and B cells), monocytes and neutrophils

YEAST (Only Reported If Detected)

Candida is the scientific name for yeast. It is a fungus that lives almost everywhere, including in your body. Usually, your immune system keeps yeast under control. If you are sick or taking antibiotics, it can multiply and cause an infection.
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The Hormone Therapy Safety - Essential Lab Panel panel contains 12 tests with 99 biomarkers .

Overview

The Hormone Therapy Safety Essential Lab Panel is designed for people who want a focused lab-based safety review while using, considering, or monitoring hormone therapy. This may include estrogen therapy, progesterone therapy, testosterone therapy, DHEA, compounded hormones, bioidentical hormone therapy, hormone pellets, creams, patches, gels, injections, or other hormone-support products.

Hormone therapy can affect more than hormone levels alone. It may overlap with changes in blood counts, liver function, kidney function, cholesterol, blood sugar, inflammation, thyroid function, iron status, vitamin D, magnesium, and urine health. This Essential panel brings together foundational safety markers that may help support a physician-guided hormone therapy review.

This panel does not prove that hormone therapy is safe or unsafe by itself. Results should be interpreted with a licensed healthcare provider and reviewed alongside symptoms, age, sex, menstrual or menopause status, hormone type, dose, route, timing, medication list, supplement use, personal health history, family history, and treatment goals.

Why Order This Panel?

The Hormone Therapy Safety Essential Lab Panel may be helpful for people who want a practical starting point for monitoring general health and safety markers while using hormone therapy or hormone-support products.

This panel may help provide insight into:

  • Blood count and platelet patterns
  • Liver and kidney function
  • Glucose, electrolyte, calcium, albumin, and protein status
  • Cholesterol and triglyceride patterns
  • Blood sugar and A1c
  • Low-grade inflammation
  • Iron storage and iron availability
  • Thyroid function
  • Vitamin D status
  • Magnesium status
  • Urine health and hydration-related findings

This panel is the foundational tier for hormone therapy safety monitoring. People who want hormone-level monitoring, testosterone or estradiol testing, DHEA-S, progesterone, PSA, prolactin, FSH/LH, or deeper thyroid markers may consider an Advanced Male or Advanced Female hormone therapy safety panel.

This Panel May Be Helpful For People Who Use

  • Estrogen therapy
  • Progesterone therapy
  • Testosterone therapy
  • DHEA supplements
  • Hormone pellets
  • Hormone creams, gels, patches, or injections
  • Compounded hormone products
  • Bioidentical hormone therapy
  • Menopause or perimenopause hormone support
  • Testosterone replacement therapy, TRT
  • Hormone-support supplements
  • Hormone therapy combined with thyroid medication, statins, blood pressure medications, or supplements

Common Symptoms or Situations This Panel May Help Evaluate

This panel may be useful for people with or concerned about:

  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Weight changes
  • Mood changes
  • Sleep concerns
  • Hot flashes or night sweats
  • Low libido
  • Body composition changes
  • Heavy bleeding or low iron concerns
  • Muscle cramps or weakness
  • Thyroid-related symptoms
  • High cholesterol or triglycerides
  • Blood sugar or insulin resistance concerns
  • Inflammation concerns
  • Hormone dose changes
  • Long-term hormone therapy use
  • Desire for a baseline before starting hormone therapy

What This Panel Helps Evaluate

This panel helps evaluate selected biomarkers related to:

  • Hormone therapy safety monitoring
  • Blood count and platelet patterns
  • Liver function
  • Kidney function
  • Urine health
  • Cholesterol and triglycerides
  • Blood sugar and A1c
  • Low-grade inflammation
  • Iron storage and iron transport
  • Thyroid function
  • Vitamin D status
  • Magnesium status
  • General wellness and metabolic safety

Tests Included and Why They Matter

Blood Health, Hematocrit & General Safety

Hormone therapy may influence blood counts, oxygen-carrying capacity, inflammation patterns, and general wellness. This group helps evaluate foundational blood health markers that may be important during hormone therapy monitoring.

CBC, includes Differential and Platelets

The CBC evaluates red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelets, and white blood cell types.

This test is included because hormone therapy safety review often benefits from a broad blood count baseline. CBC results may provide context for anemia, infection clues, immune activity, platelet changes, inflammation, fatigue, bruising, and overall blood health.

For people using testosterone therapy, the CBC may be especially useful because testosterone can increase red blood cell production in some people. For women using hormone therapy, the CBC may help provide context for fatigue, heavy bleeding, iron-related concerns, or anemia patterns.

Liver, Kidney, Electrolyte & General Metabolic Safety

Hormones may be used as oral, topical, injectable, pellet, or compounded products. General organ-function markers help provide safety context when reviewing hormone therapy, medications, supplements, hydration, and metabolic health.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, CMP

The CMP evaluates glucose, liver function, kidney function, electrolytes, calcium, albumin, total protein, and other metabolic markers.

This test is included because hormone therapy safety review benefits from a broad organ-function baseline. CMP results provide context for liver enzymes, kidney markers, glucose, hydration, electrolytes, calcium balance, albumin, and protein status.

The CMP is also useful when hormone therapy is used with other medications or supplements that may affect the liver, kidneys, glucose, or electrolyte balance.

Urinalysis, UA, Complete

A complete urinalysis evaluates urine markers such as protein, blood, glucose, ketones, specific gravity, pH, and other findings.

This test is included because urine findings may provide context for kidney health, hydration, glucose handling, urinary patterns, and general wellness. It can also provide useful safety information when hormone therapy is used with supplements, metabolic medications, or other long-term therapies.

Cardiometabolic, Cholesterol & Blood Sugar Support

Hormone therapy can overlap with changes in cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugar, body composition, inflammation, and cardiovascular wellness. This group provides core cardiometabolic context for hormone therapy review.

Hemoglobin A1c

Hemoglobin A1c measures average blood sugar over approximately the past two to three months.

This test is included because blood sugar patterns may provide context for metabolic wellness, insulin resistance, weight changes, fatigue, energy, and long-term cardiometabolic risk. Hormone therapy, menopause status, thyroid function, body composition, diet, and medications may all influence metabolic patterns.

Lipid Panel

The Lipid Panel measures total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.

This test is included because hormone therapy, thyroid function, menopause status, testosterone therapy, diet, weight changes, genetics, and medications may all affect lipid patterns. Cholesterol and triglyceride results provide important cardiovascular and metabolic context for hormone therapy monitoring.

hs-CRP

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein is a marker of low-grade inflammation.

This test is included because inflammation may provide context for cardiometabolic risk, hormone-related symptoms, ferritin interpretation, liver/metabolic patterns, and general wellness. hs-CRP is nonspecific and should be reviewed with symptoms, medical history, medications, body composition, and other lab findings.

Iron Status, Energy & Fatigue Support

Hormone therapy may overlap with fatigue, bleeding patterns, red blood cell changes, iron depletion, or iron overload concerns. This group helps evaluate iron storage and iron availability.

Ferritin

Ferritin measures stored iron.

This test is included because iron stores may provide context for fatigue, hair shedding, heavy periods, blood donation, phlebotomy, inflammation, liver/metabolic patterns, and anemia-related concerns. Ferritin can be low with iron deficiency or elevated with inflammation, liver stress, or metabolic issues.

Ferritin should be interpreted with iron/TIBC, CBC, hs-CRP, symptoms, bleeding history, and provider guidance.

Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity, TIBC

Iron and TIBC help evaluate circulating iron and iron transport capacity.

This test is included because iron availability is important for oxygen delivery, energy, stamina, and anemia-related interpretation. It is useful when reviewing fatigue, low ferritin, heavy bleeding, blood donation, iron supplementation, or abnormal CBC patterns.

Thyroid Function & Hormone Symptom Overlap

Thyroid symptoms can overlap with hormone therapy symptoms. Fatigue, weight changes, mood shifts, temperature sensitivity, hair changes, skin changes, and bowel changes may be related to thyroid function, sex hormones, metabolic health, or a combination of factors.

TSH

TSH is a key thyroid screening marker.

This test is included because thyroid function may influence energy, metabolism, body temperature, weight, mood, hair, skin, bowel patterns, menstrual patterns, and hormone therapy response. TSH provides a practical starting point for thyroid-related symptom review.

T4, Free

Free T4 measures the available form of thyroxine, a thyroid hormone.

This test is included because Free T4 provides additional thyroid hormone production context when reviewed with TSH and symptoms. It may be especially useful for people taking thyroid medication or experiencing fatigue, weight changes, cold intolerance, constipation, hair changes, or other thyroid-related symptoms.

Nutrient, Bone & Muscle Support

Hormone therapy is often used in the context of aging, menopause, andropause, bone health, energy, mood, sleep, muscle function, and metabolic wellness. Nutrient markers can provide added context for safety and symptom interpretation.

QuestAssureD™ 25-Hydroxyvitamin D, D2, D3, LC/MS/MS

Vitamin D testing measures vitamin D status.

This test is included because vitamin D supports bone health, immune function, muscle function, inflammation balance, calcium balance, and general wellness. Vitamin D is especially relevant when hormone therapy is reviewed in the context of menopause, aging, bone health, fatigue, muscle symptoms, or low sun exposure.

Magnesium

Magnesium supports muscle function, nerve signaling, sleep, glucose metabolism, blood pressure regulation, and energy production.

This test is included because magnesium may provide context for muscle cramps, sleep quality, mood, fatigue, blood pressure, metabolic wellness, and supplement use during hormone therapy.

Related Biomarker Patterns This Panel May Help Identify

This panel may help identify or rule out lab patterns related to:

  • Blood count abnormalities
  • Hemoglobin or hematocrit changes
  • Platelet patterns
  • Liver or kidney marker changes
  • Urinalysis abnormalities
  • Blood sugar imbalance
  • Cholesterol or triglyceride patterns
  • Low-grade inflammation
  • Iron deficiency or iron overload patterns
  • Thyroid function changes
  • Vitamin D status
  • Magnesium status
  • General hormone therapy safety concerns

Professional Safety and Interpretation Notice

This panel is designed to support hormone therapy safety review. It does not prove that hormone therapy is safe or unsafe by itself. Results should be interpreted with a licensed healthcare provider and reviewed alongside symptoms, hormone type, dose, route, timing, duration, sex, age, menstrual or menopause status, medications, supplements, personal health history, and family history.

Do not stop or change any prescribed hormone therapy or medication without guidance from your healthcare provider.

Additional Panels to Consider

Customers interested in the Hormone Therapy Safety Essential Lab Panel may also consider:

  • Hormone Therapy Safety Advanced Female Lab Panel
  • Hormone Therapy Safety Advanced Male Lab Panel
  • Women’s Hormone Balance & Perimenopause Lab Panel
  • Men’s Testosterone, Energy & Vitality Lab Panel
  • Medication & Supplement Safety Lab Panel
  • Thyroid & Metabolism Lab Panel
  • Heart Health & Cholesterol Lab Panel
  • Vitamin, Mineral & Nutrient Deficiency Lab Panel
  • Stress, Cortisol, Sleep & Burnout Lab Panel
  • Longevity & Healthy Aging Lab Panel

How to Prepare for This Panel

Preparation may vary depending on the specific tests included and instructions provided with your order. In general:

  • Fasting may be recommended because glucose and lipid markers are included.
  • Bring or keep a complete list of hormone products, including dose, route, schedule, brand, and how long you have used them.
  • Include prescription hormones, compounded hormones, pellets, creams, patches, injections, oral products, DHEA, testosterone, progesterone, estrogen, and supplements.
  • Note symptoms such as fatigue, hot flashes, mood changes, sleep issues, libido changes, bleeding changes, muscle symptoms, or weight changes.
  • Do not stop hormone therapy or prescribed medications unless your healthcare provider tells you to.
  • Follow all lab collection instructions provided with your order.

What Happens After You Receive Your Results?

After your results are available, your biomarkers can help organize hormone therapy findings into areas such as blood counts, hematocrit, liver function, kidney function, urine health, cholesterol, blood sugar, inflammation, iron status, thyroid function, vitamin D status, magnesium status, and general wellness.

During the physician consultation, you can discuss whether your results suggest the need for follow-up testing, hormone-level monitoring, dose review, timing review, medication review, lifestyle changes, or additional safety monitoring based on your symptoms, hormone therapy plan, and health history.

FAQ: Hormone Therapy Safety Essential Lab Panel

What is the Hormone Therapy Safety Essential Lab Panel?

The Hormone Therapy Safety Essential Lab Panel is a focused blood and urine test panel that evaluates foundational safety markers for people using or considering hormone therapy. It includes CBC, CMP, lipid panel, A1c, hs-CRP, ferritin, iron/TIBC, TSH, Free T4, vitamin D, magnesium, and urinalysis.

Who should consider this hormone therapy safety panel?

This panel may be useful for people using estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, compounded hormones, bioidentical hormone therapy, hormone pellets, creams, patches, gels, injections, or other hormone-support products.

Does this panel measure estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone?

No. This Essential panel focuses on general safety markers such as blood counts, liver and kidney function, cholesterol, blood sugar, inflammation, iron status, thyroid function, vitamin D, magnesium, and urine health. Customers who want hormone-level testing may consider the Advanced Female or Advanced Male hormone therapy safety panels.

Why is a CBC included in a hormone therapy safety panel?

CBC is included because it evaluates red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, white blood cells, and platelets. This may provide useful safety context during hormone therapy, especially for fatigue, anemia-related patterns, inflammation, or testosterone-related hematocrit changes.

Why are liver and kidney tests included?

The liver helps process many hormones, medications, and supplements, while the kidneys help clear metabolic waste and many substances from the body. CMP and urinalysis provide organ-function and safety context during hormone therapy review.

Why are cholesterol and A1c included?

Hormone therapy, thyroid function, menopause status, testosterone therapy, weight changes, diet, genetics, and medications may all affect cardiometabolic markers. The Lipid Panel and Hemoglobin A1c help evaluate cholesterol, triglycerides, and longer-term blood sugar patterns.

Why are ferritin and iron/TIBC included?

Ferritin and iron/TIBC help evaluate iron storage and iron availability. These markers may provide context for fatigue, heavy bleeding, blood donation, anemia-related patterns, iron supplementation, or hormone-related changes in blood markers.

Why are TSH and Free T4 included?

Thyroid symptoms can overlap with hormone therapy symptoms, including fatigue, weight changes, mood changes, temperature sensitivity, hair changes, and sleep concerns. TSH and Free T4 provide thyroid function context.

Why are vitamin D and magnesium included?

Vitamin D supports bone, muscle, immune, and general wellness. Magnesium supports muscle function, nerve signaling, sleep, glucose metabolism, and blood pressure regulation. Both may provide useful context during hormone therapy monitoring.

Can this panel prove that hormone therapy is safe?

No. No lab panel can prove hormone therapy is safe in every situation. This panel helps evaluate selected safety markers that may be useful to review with a licensed healthcare provider.

Should I stop hormone therapy before testing?

Do not stop or change prescribed hormone therapy unless your healthcare provider tells you to. Bring your hormone medication name, dose, route, schedule, timing, and duration to your consultation so results can be interpreted correctly.

What is the difference between the Essential and Advanced hormone therapy safety panels?

The Essential panel focuses on general safety markers. Advanced panels add hormone-specific markers such as estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA-S, FSH/LH, prolactin, PSA for men, thyroid antibodies, and other deeper hormone-related markers.

Important Note

This panel is designed to help evaluate selected biomarkers that may be related to hormone therapy safety, blood counts, liver function, kidney function, cholesterol, blood sugar, inflammation, iron status, thyroid function, vitamin D status, magnesium status, urine health, and general wellness. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease by itself. Results should be reviewed with a licensed healthcare provider.

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