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Expanded Short Post Menopause Hormone Panel
Hot flashes and breast cancer.
This patient had a history of breast cancer and was currently experiencing hot flashes. She was no longer cycling. That is why the doctor ordered the Expanded Short Post Menopause Hormone Panel (ePHP1) that measures selected ovarian, adrenal, and brain hormones.
Her DHEA was low. Testosterone and estradiol were higher than we wanted to see, possibly having contributed to her cancer in the past. Progesterone was actually in the target range even though, to her knowledge, she was not taking any. This made me wonder if one of her skin care products contained progesterone (not on the label).
Estrone was normal. Estriol was in the target range. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) was in the menopausal reference range. Luteinizing hormone (LH) was lower than the menopausal reference range, possibly because of the higher-than-expected progesterone.
The low DHEA is an indicator that this patient could consider general adrenal support and the Adrenal Stress Index (ASI) to further identify whether adrenal function was compromised.
Taking supplemental DHEA would not be considered, because DHEA sometimes converts to and raises testosterone or estradiol. In fact, the doctor was considering supporting the liver to help detoxify and bring down the already high levels of those two hormones.
Also, because of her history of cancer, more frequent monitoring likely will be part of her routine.
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