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Saliva/Blood Spot Testing Kits

Testing your hormones through saliva is convenient, inexpensive, and above all, an accurate means of testing steroid hormones. Scientific studies continue to show a strong correlation between steroid hormone levels in saliva and the amount of hormone in the blood that is active or "bioavailable." It is this fraction of total hormone that is free to enter the target tissues in the brain, uterus, skin, and breasts.

Another advangate to saliva testing is that it can be done anywhere anytime. Testing that relies on blood drawn in the doctor's office makes it harder to obtain samples at specific times (such as in the early morning) or multiple times during the day. Also, hormones in saliva are very stable and can actually be stored at room temperature for up to a week without affecting the accuracy of the result. For the consumer this means maximum flexibility in sample collection and shipment.  For more information, see our product data sheet: About Saliva Testing.

Blood Spot testing is the future of blood testing. The process requires only blood from a nearly painless finger prick and several tests can be run from a single sample. Blood spot testing provides results on a par with those from serum tests but without the cost and inconvenience of conventional blood drawing.  In addition, collection times can be optimized for fasting baseline hormone levels and assessment of HRT dosing and diurnal hormone testing. For more information, see our product data sheet: About Blood Spot Testing (Updated 2008!)

BEFORE ORDERING PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING:

Individual hormones we test in saliva include:

Hormone profiles we offer in saliva include:

Blood Spot profiles we offer include:

Blood spot/Saliva combination profiles we offer include:

Fertility Profile I (Saliva/Blood)
Includes saliva: E2, Pg, T, DS, Diurnal 4x Cortisol; blood spot: TSH, fT3, fT4, TPO, FSH, LH.


Hormone Symptom Check Lists

Before deciding which hormones or hormone profiles to order please review the symptoms check list:

PDF Download-Symptom Checklist Women
PDF Download-Symptom Checklist Men

Two or more persistent symptoms in any given category is a strong indication of hormonal imbalance and the need to test levels of that specific hormone or profile.

Quality Standards

While quality assurance in customer service, materials and resources is important, quality assurance in the laboratory is mandatory.  ZRT strives to maintain reliable, consistent and accurate results.  The following are some of the many quality assurances that are part of the ZRT difference:

• C.L.I.A. certified since 1999: No. 38D0960950
   › Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (C.L.I.A.) regulates laboratories nationwide and certifies them in laboratory procedures.

• ZRT participates in C.A.P. (College of American Pathologists) testing
   › Blind samples are used to assess the precision and accuracy of laboratory procedures.

• Innovative robotic technology
   › Decreases the possibility of human error.

• 8 controls in every 96 test assay kit
   › Known samples are tested to ensure consistent results.

• Certified medical technologists perform all assays
   › With backgrounds from some of the best known labs in the country and more than 130 years of combined experience.

• Assays are reviewed by the lab supervisor or director 
   › If ZRT quality standards are not met, the entire assay is repeated.

• ZRT physicians review all results
   › This includes reviewing symptoms, supplementation and other medications, as well as lab results.  If results do not correlate with clinical information they are sent back for confirmation.

• Superior laboratory leadership 
   › Staff includes 3 PhDs (molecular biochemistry, biophysics, and biochemistry) and one Master of Science in forensic chemistry.

• Publishing and Research
   › ZRT innovative testing has been published in peer-reviewed journals for its part in research, as well as for establishing excellent blood spot testing methodology. 

• PhD memberships in professional organizations
   › American Association of Clinical Chemists, American Diabetes Association, the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research, American Association of Bioanalysts, the Endocrine Society, American Association for Cancer Research and the American Chemical Society.

Instructions

1. Decide which hormone profile or specific hormone(s) you would like to test. (See Above)
2. Order specific Saliva or Blood Spot Testing Kit.  All kits are pre-paid meaning that you do not have to send in any money with your test.
3. Once test kit arrives, collect sample(s). Send sample(s) to lab (complete instructions included in kit).  Note:  Once the test has been mailed to the lab please allow at least 14 business days from the time the lab receives the results for processing.  This time varies and may be more or less. 
4. Receive comprehensive lab report mailed or faxed to you from OAW.
5. Optional: Consult with Dr. Lanphier ($100.00) or your health care practitioner regarding the test results. Dr. Lanphier will consult with you regarding the results of your lab work for an $100.00/hour charge per consultation. Consultations are done by phone and scheduled appointment only (phone 832.295.0560 to schedule your appointment).

Saliva Test Kit Contents

Each kit contains:

• Instructions for Saliva Collection
• Symptom Checklist on Test Requisition Form
• Requisition Form to complete including your personal and medical history
• Vial(s) for collecting saliva
• Pre-paid, Pre-addressed Return Packaging
  

Tips and Suggestions for Saliva Collection

SUGGESTION:  Unsure if supplement qualifies as a hormone? Please list all medications that you use on your skin, inhale, take as a capsule or tablet, use vaginally, rectally, or take under your tongue.

TIP: If you cannot get enough saliva, freeze the tube with amount already collected; resume collecting at the same time the next morning (up to 5 days) until tube is at least half to three quarters full.

TIP: Dry mouth? Try pressing tip of tongue against teeth. Smelling (not eating) a lemon or other foods can start saliva flow. YAWNING can help saliva pool in your mouth.

TIP: Mistake collecting? Just rinse the entire tube with hot water, allow to air dry completely, then start over using the same tube.

Blood Spot Kit Contents

Each kit contains:

• Instructions for Blood Spot Collection
• Requisition Form to complete including personal and medical history
• Symptom Checklist on Test Requisition Form
• Blood Sample Card
• 2 Lancets
• Alcohol Prep Pad
• Adhesive Bandage
• Pre-paid, Pre-addressed Return Packaging
  

Tips and Suggestions for Blood Spot Collection

SUGGESTION:  Unsure if supplement qualifies as a hormone? Please list all medications that you use on your skin, inhale, take as a capsule or tablet, use vaginally, rectally, or take under your tongue.

SUGGESTION: To encourage blood flow, before pricking finger you can:
• Rub hands together
• Run hands under warm water
• Swing arm in circle or back and forth at your side

 

TIP: If you have trouble drawing enough blood, choose another finger and use the second lancet.

 

TIP: Collecting so that your arm is below your waist allows gravity to assist the flow of blood.

 

TIP: To help blood flow, gently milk hand starting at the wrist and down to finger as shown in the instructions.

 

TIP: Just before collection, open alcohol pad and sterile gauze pad provided.

Laboratory Test Descriptions & Fees

Hormone Saliva Tests

Female/Male Saliva Profile I - $170.00 (five tests)
Good basic assessment of sex steroid and adrenal hormones collected in the morning when levels should be at their peak. Five (5) Tests: Estradiol (E2), Progesterone (Pg), Testosterone (T), DHEA-S, and morning Cortisol (C1).

Female/Male Saliva Profile II (+ PM Cortisol) - $210.00 (six tests)
Female/Male Saliva Profile I + PM Cortisol to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of adrenal function. Six (6) tests: Female/Male Saliva Profile I (E2, Pg, T, DS, and C1) + PM Cortisol.

Female/Male Saliva Profile III (+ AFT) - $270.00 (eight tests)
Female/Male Saliva Profile I with 3 additional collections throughout the day to provide a complete evaluation of diurnal adrenal function. Eight (8) tests: Female/Male Saliva Profile I (E2, Pg, T, DS, and C1) + noon, evening, and night Cortisol.

AM Cortisol (C) - $35.00
Recommended with situational stress and fatigue; indicator of adrenal imbalance.

AM / PM Cortisol - $70.00 (two tests)
Recommended with excess stress, morning and evening fatigue, difficulty sleeping etc.; indicator of adrenal dysfunction.

Diurnal Cortisol (C1, C2, C3, C4) (Saliva) - $138.00
Recommended with situational stress and fatigue; indicator of adrenal imbalance. Tests morning, noon, evening, and nighttime Cortisol.  Cortisol Test for Adrenal Function (Updated 2008!)

DHEA-S - $35.00
Recommended with androgen deficiency or excess symptoms; indicator of stress level, mental performance and insulin resistance.

Estradiol (E2) - $35.00
The most predominant of the estrogens. Testing is recommended with symptoms of estrogen deficiency or excess; best tested in concert with progesterone, as an imbalance of these two hormones is associated with major symptoms of menopause and disorders of the reproductive system. It is recommended that Estradiol levels be measured when supplementing with a compounded preparation of bioidentical estrogens containing Estradiol (e.g. "Biest" preprations contain estradiol and estriol OR "Triest" preparations containing estradiol, estriol and estrone).

Estriol (E3) - $35.00
It is recommended that Estriol levels be measured when supplementing with a compounded preparation of bioidentical estrogens containing Estriol (e.g. "Biest" preparations contain estriol and estradiol OR "Triest" preparations containing estriol, estradiol and estrone).

Estrone (E1) - $35.00
It is recommended that Estrone levels be measured when supplementing with a compounded preparation of bioidentical estrogens containing Estrone (e.g. "Triest" preparations contain estrone, estradiol and estriol).

Progesterone (Pg) - $35.00
Recommended with symptoms of deficiency or excess; best tested in concert with estradiol as an imbalance of these two hormones is associated with major symptoms of menopause and disorders of the reproductive system.

Testosterone (T) - $35.00
Recommmended with deficiency or excess symptoms; indicator of low sex drive, hair loss/excess, muscle and bone status.


Blood-Spot Tests 

Male Blood Profile II (IGF-1, T, SHBG, PSA) - $349.00
Overall assessment of male vitality, performance, prostate health, and complete thyroid assessment. Includes: Male Blood Profile I (E2, T, SHBG, PSA, DS, C1) + Complete Thyroid Profile (TSH, fT3, fT4, TPO).

Complete Thyroid Profile (Blood) - $279.00
Overall assessment of thyroid function. Includes: free Thyroxine (fT4), free Triiodothryronine (fT3), Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Thyroid Peroxidase Antibody (TPO). For more information, see our product data sheet: Thyroid Profile (Updated 2008!)

Cardio-Metabolic Profile (Blood) - $184.00
Assesses risks associated with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Tests in this profile include: Insulin, High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein, Total and LDL Cholesterol, Hemoglobin A1c, and Triglycerides.
For more information, see our product data sheet: CardioMetabolic Risk Profile I in Blood Spot.

Vitamin D, 25-OH, Total (Blood) - $75.00
Detects deficiencies in Vitamin D (independently monitoring both Vitamin D2 and D3 status by LC-MS/MS) as a potential cause of health problems ranging from osteoporosis to cardiovascular disease.  For more information, see our product data sheet: Vitamin D Testing in Blood Spot.

Fertility Profile I (Saliva/Blood)  - $379.00
Assesses hormones associated with fertility. Includes blood spot: E2, Pg, T, SHBG, DS, TSH, fT3, fT4, TPO, FSH, LH; saliva: Diurnal 4x Cortisol.  For mor information, see our product data sheet: Female Fertility.

Uses for the Saliva Testing Kit | Health Conditions

Hormonal imbalances play a part in many health-related problems. The following common conditions (listed alphabetically) are associated with hormonal imbalance.

Adrenal Insufficiency

The adrenal glands normally secrete cortisol in response to stress, exercise and excitement, and in reaction to low blood sugar.  However, too much physical or emotional stress over a prolonged period can cause the glands to reduce their output of adrenal hormones. This is of particular significance for women in midlife, as the adrenal glands become the main source of hormone production after menopause.

Common symptoms: fatigue, anxiety, nervousness, bone loss, increased abdominal fat, high blood sugar, allergies / asthma, arthritis, sleep disturbances, memory lapses, sugar cravings, chemical sensitivities, low energy.

Main hormones involved: cortisol, DHEA, progesterone.

Suggested test profile:  Diurnal Cortisol (Saliva) or Female/Male Saliva Profile II (Saliva)

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Andropause
 
Unlike menopause, the production of male hormones does not stop abruptly, but instead, hormone production by the testes (the male equivalent of the ovaries) tapers steadily with age. This physiological decrease can cause changes in sexual function, mood, energy level, and body composition.

Common symptoms: lower sex drive, erectile dysfunction, decreased muscle strength and mass, bone loss, decreased mental clarity, low energy level, fatigue, and other symptoms of male hormone imbalance.

Main hormones involved: testosterone, estrogen.

Suggested test profile:  Female/Male Saliva Profile I (Saliva)  or Male Blood Profile II (Blood)

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Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Usually an age-related condition, BPH refers to a benign enlargement of the prostate gland.  Clearly defined risk factors include age and androgen levels, with most recent research indicating an association with estradiol levels.  Dihydrotestosterone and estrogens are known to stimulate prostate growth.
 
Common symptoms: urinary urgency, frequency, hesitancy, or retention; weak urine stream; dribbling; sleep disturbance; enlarged prostate on digital rectal exam.

Main hormones involved: testosterone, estradiol, PSA, SHBG

Suggested test profile: Male Blood Profile II (Blood)

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Breast Conditions

Breast tissue contains estrogen receptors. High levels of estrogen or an estrogen/progesterone imbalance (estrogen dominance) can be linked to premenstrual breast tenderness, fibrocystic breast changes, and breast cancer.

Common symptoms: breast pain, breast lumps.

Main hormones involved: estrogen, progesterone

Suggested test profile:  Female/Male Saliva Profile II or III (Saliva)

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CardioMetabolic Risk Syndrome

The cluster of modifiable risk factors and markers that identify individuals at increased risk for cardiovascular disease (myocardial infarction, stroke, peripheral arterial disease) and type 2 diabetes. This syndrome is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

Common symptoms: hypertension/elevated blood pressure, abdominal obesity, atherogenic dyslipidemia (low HDL cholesterol, elevated triglycerides, elevated LDL cholesterol), prothrombotic/proinflammatory state, insulin resistance/glucose intolerance.

Main hormones involved: insulin, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), high-sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hsCRP), triglycerides
 
Suggested test profile:  CardioMetabolic Profile I (Blood) plus Diurnal Cortisol (Saliva) or CardioMetabolic Profile I (Blood) plus Female/Male Saliva Profile III (Saliva) or CardioMetabolic Profile I (Blood) plus Vitamin D, 25-OH, Total (Blood)

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Endometriosis

During a normal menstrual cycle the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, thickens. This tissue is normally sloughed off during a woman’s period. With endometriosis, the endometrial tissue grows in places outside the uterus and can become inflamed. This usually occurs on the ovaries and other structures in the pelvis, such as the bladder. Endometrial tissue responds to estrogen. High levels of this hormone may aggravate the condition.

Common symptoms: pelvic pain, inflammation, menstrual irregularities, fertility problems

Main hormones involved: estrogen, progesterone

Suggested test profile:  Female/Male Saliva Profile II or III (Saliva)

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Erectile Dysfunction

Often referred to as “impotence”, erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve and maintain an erection for satisfactory sexual intercourse.  As many as 30 million men in the US have some form of this problem.  Erectile dysfunction may be due to several factors, including testosterone deficiency and excessive stress hormones such as cortisol and elevated insulin.
 
Common symptoms:  inability to achieve or maintain an erection, decreased frequency of morning erections.

Main hormones involved: total testosterone, free testosterone, estradiol, SHBG, cortisol

Suggested test profile: Male Blood Profile II

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Estrogen Dominance

Estrogen and progesterone levels must be balanced to work together efficiently. Factors such as estrogens in foods and the environment, synthetic hormone use (HRT), and obesity expose women to excess estrogen. Also, progesterone levels tend to drop off sooner and more abruptly with age and lack of ovulation than does estrogen. These factors can result in too much estrogen relative to the amount of progesterone produced in the body. This imbalance is a common cause of symptoms during perimenopause and menopause, and can also occur after childbirth or during periods of high stress that can cause significant hormonal shift. Estrogen dominance may also be associated with thyroid problems and breast disease. In men, estrogen dominance may occur during andropause when testosterone levels decline relative to rising estrogen levels, increasing risks for prostrate problems and/or disease.

Common symptoms: heavy or irregular periods, tender breasts, bloating, irritability, mood swings, weight gain, sleep disturbances, and other symptoms of female hormone imbalance.

Main hormones involved: estrogen, progesterone

Suggested test profile:  Female/Male Saliva Profile I, II, or III (Saliva) or Male Blood Profile II (Blood)

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Hypothyroidism

In this condition, the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone (T3/T4) or, thyroid hormones are blocked from performing their function by existing hormone imbalances. Low thyroid hormone levels cause body metabolism to slow down. Thyroid levels may be low for many years before symptoms become clearly noticeable. They are often confused with general age-related changes and are more common among women.

Common symptoms: fatigue; sluggishness, depression, low libido, cold hands and feet, feeling cold all the time, weight gain, inability to lose weight, thinning hair, brittle nails, dry skin.

Main hormones involved: thyroid hormones (T3/T4), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)

Suggested test profile:  Complete Thyroid Profile (Blood)

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Infertility

In women, an imbalance of the female hormones can disrupt ovulation. It can also interfere with the ability of a fertilized egg to implant and develop in the uterus. Infertility can be associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis. In men, infertility may be associated with hormone imbalance that corresponds to low or poor sperm counts/function.

Common symptoms: problems becoming pregnant; inability to maintain a pregnancy.

Main hormones involved: estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, cortisol, thyroid, FSH

Suggested test profile:  Fertility Profile I (Saliva/Blood)

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Insomnia

Difficulty initiating and maintaining sleep is a very common problem.  Causes of insomnia are numerous and may be related to hormone imbalance, medications, chronic disease, sleep apnea, and psychiatric conditions such as anxiety and depression.  Estrogen and progesterone deficiency in women, testosterone excess in men, and production of excessive stress hormones (cortisol) in men and women can cause or contribute to insomnia.

Common symptoms: inability to fall asleep or stay asleep, daytime fatigue.

Main hormones involved: estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, thyroid

Suggested test profile: Female/Male Saliva Profile III (Saliva)

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 Insulin Resistance

The hormone, insulin, enables cells to convert food to energy. When cells become resistant to the effects of insulin or they lose their ability to respond to insulin (i.e., they become insulin resistant), the pancreas responds by making more of the hormone. This leads to overly high levels of insulin and glucose in the blood. Excess insulin signals cells to hold onto fat instead of using it for energy. This can lead to obesity, high blood pressure, abnormal triglyceride levels, problems processing blood glucose, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and Type 2 Diabetes.

Common symptoms: fatigue, foggy thinking, nervousness, increased abdominal fat, bloating, food cravings, hypoglycemia.

Main hormones involved: insulin, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), high-sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hsCRP), triglycerides.

Suggested test profile:  CardioMetabolic Profile I (Blood) plus Diurnal Cortisol (Saliva) or CardioMetabolic Profile I (Blood) plus Female/Male Saliva Profile III (Saliva)

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Menopause and Perimenopause

Menopause refers to the normal decline in ovarian function that signals the end of a woman’s reproductive years. Once a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, she is considered to have gone through menopause. The average age of menopause is 51. However, women can experience menopause-related changes much earlier. The time leading to the eventual end of menstruation, called perimenopause, is marked by fluctuating hormone levels (particularly estrogen and progesterone) and multiple symptoms.

Common symptoms: hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, irritability, vaginal dryness, weight gain, memory lapses, and other symptoms of female hormone imbalance.

Main hormones involved: estrogen, progesterone, testosterone

Suggested test profile:  Female/Male Saliva Profile I (Saliva)

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Osteoporosis

Both men and women lose bone mass as they age. In women, declining production of estrogen and progesterone after menopause speeds up this process.  Decreasing levels of testosterone in women and men also play a role since these hormones stimulate prolonged bone growth. Existing imbalances of cortisol can also contribute to bone loss.

Common symptoms: thinning, brittle bones; fractures; loss of height.

Main hormones involved: estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, cortisol, thyroid hormones

Suggested test profile:  Female/Male Saliva Profile II or III (Saliva)

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Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS, is a condition in which cysts form in the ovaries, disrupting the process of ovulation. Infertility and other menstrual problems can occur as a result. Although the cause of the condition is unknown, it is marked by several hormonal imbalances, including the overproduction of androgens (testosterone) by the ovaries. Pituitary (FSH, LH), thyroid, and adrenal hormones are often out of balance as well. In addition, there is a strong link between PCOS, insulin resistance, and Type II Diabetes.

Common symptoms: infertility, menstrual irregularities, increased facial hair, acne, high blood pressure, male pattern balding, excess weight around the waist, high insulin levels, ovarian cysts.

Main hormones involved: estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, thyroid, insulin

Suggested test profile: Female/Male Saliva Profile II (Saliva) or Fertility Profile I (Saliva/Blood)

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Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Female hormone levels rise and fall during the course of a normal menstrual cycle. These changes are responsible for triggering ovulation and menstruation. When hormones are in balance, a woman is less likely to experience PMS symptoms. For women who have one or more hormones out of balance, hormonal shifts during the menstrual cycle can bring uncomfortable physical or emotional symptoms. When PMS is severe, it can interfere with a woman’s daily functioning and quality of life.
 
Common symptoms: painful periods, bloating, breast tenderness, fatigue, irritability, tension, mood swings, depression, increased appetite, forgetfulness.

Main hormones involved: estrogen, progesterone

Suggested test profile:  Female/Male Saliva Profile I (Saliva)

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Sexual Dysfunction

For men, sexual dysfunction may include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, decreased ejaculation or other ejaculation disorders.  Women with sexual dysfunction may experience vaginal dryness, low libido, or anorgasmia (lack of orgasm).  Sexual dysfunction is often associated with chronic stress.  Although psychosocial factors are often related to sexual dysfunction in both women and men, hormone balance should also be assessed.

Common symptoms: low libido, erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory problems, anorgasmia.

Main hormones involved: estrogen, tesosterone, cortisol

Suggested test profile: Female/Male Saliva Profile I or II (Saliva)

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Vitamin D Deficiency

Disorders linked to Vitamin D deficiency include stroke, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, osteomalacia, several forms of cancer, some autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and Type 2 Diabetes, and even Type 1 Diabetes (particularly in infants and children), depression, and schizophrenia2-12. A major culprit is inadequate sun exposure of the skin, usually for climatic or cultural reasons (even in countries near the equator, women in particular must have much of their skin area covered), and through the popular use of sunscreen. Vitamin D status is therefore an important screening test, especially for people who spend much of their time indoors, or who live in colder climates. Vitamin D testing may also be used to monitor supplementation to ensure that adequate blood levels are achieved.
 
Those at risk: elderly, dark-skinned, obese, those with limited sunlight exposure, breast-fed infants.

Main hormones involved:  Vitamin D2 and D3

Suggested test profile: Vitamin D, 25-OH, Total (Blood)

   

Due To State Law

New York State Residents:

New York State health law prohibits the testing of specimens collected in or mailed from New York, and prohibits the transmission of data from our laboratory to NY physicians or residents. Therefore, direct receipt of lab results for NY residents is not possible.

California State Residents:

California State health law requires that the testing of any specimen collected or mailed from California be accompanied by a written order from a health care professional licensed in California to order laboratory tests. This includes the following disciplines: M.D.; D.C.; LAc; R.D.; D.O.; N.P.; and Pharmacists (R.PH). As of September 2002 (Senate Bill 577), such lab tests may be ordered by complementary/alternative health care practitioners "not providing services that require medical training." California consumers not working with a licensed health care professional should contact a compounding pharmacist in their area.