Estradiol

4021

1 mL serum

0.5 mL

Note: For any patients for whom low estradiol levels are anticipated (e.g. males, pre-pubertal children and hypogonadal/post-menopausal females), the Quest Diagnostics Estradiol, Ultrasensitive, LC/MS/MS assay is recommended (test code 30289).

Note: Do not add on estradiol testing to a barrier gel specimen older than 72 hours. Estradiol binds to barrier gel causing decreased values.

Plastic screw-cap vial

Room temperature

Room temperature: 7 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 6 months
*Do not add estradiol testing to a barrier gel specimen older than 72 hours

Serum stored on barrier gel for more than 72 hours

AM, Nights

Measuring the circulating levels of estradiol is important for assessing the ovarian function and monitoring follicular development for assisted reproduction protocols. Estradiol plays an essential role throughout the human menstrual cycle. Elevated estradiol levels in females may also result from primary or secondary ovarian hyperfunction. Very high estradiol levels are found during the induction of ovulation for assisted reproduction therapy or in pregnancy. Decreased estradiol levels in females may result from either lack of ovarian synthesis (primary ovarian hypofunction and menopause) or a lesion in the hypothalamus-pituitary axis (secondary ovarian hypofunction). Elevated estradiol levels in males may be due to increased aromatization of androgens, resulting in gynecomastia.