http://www.eroids.com/forum/steroids-qa/steroid-cycles/blood-work-bible-...

ideally, you want to run them 6 wks into cycle, again upon completing cycle, and again upon completing pct. this gives you a chance to see how you're reacting on a hormonal level at the various stages. for example, 6 wks not only tells you if your gear is real but it allows you to take a peak at estrogen levels at the least. since testosterone converts to estrogen, you'll want to keep an eye on it to ensure either if you need to increase or decrease AI. depending on the panel you run, you could also take a peak at other components like liver enzymes. this lets you understand if liver protection should be tweaked. same is true with the post cycle test. checking levels to see where you're at in terms of pct onset. post pct test will depict whether or not you have recovered. the below is a good reference, although quite long.. there are several out there. cdaddy7 has one in his forums that is a bit more concise.

privatemedlabs is where you want to go to schedule your test appt. they'll send you to lab corp. the ID would be a moot point because your medical records are confidential. you're just running diagnostics on your blood; not performing an illegal activity.

Any single hormone does not work in isolation – it works something like a member of a large orchestra with many different players. The question of testosterone’s role can not be determined, in most cases, by knowing merely its serum concentration. What is the right level for one person may not be right for another person. Absolute levels are deceptive. Far more relevant is the ratio between testosterone and estradiol concentrations. Testosterone is an antagonist of estradiol; it acts to oppose estradiol’s actions. Thus, a given estradiol level will lead to breast growth in a man with low testosterone, and not in a man with higher testosterone levels.

DID YOU KNOW the estrogen level of a 55 year old man, is generally higher than that of a 55 year old woman

With that being said, medical studies show that since the prostate in males operate almost similar to a uterus, raising estrogen levels, and diminishing testosterone levels is directly linked with prostate cancer!

I have spent numerous hours compiling this write up for you all. I asked 7gothic our beloved mod, “whats a good subject I can dissect?” and he pointed me in this direction; so props to him! This is truly a subject that hasn’t been broken down on Eroids yet.. as far as I know?

Why is this important and why should this stay in steroid cycles?
Understanding bloodwork is a key to not only your overall health, but the milestone of warning signs. I would suggest everyone have their blood work and hormone panels done both pre and post cycle, which is how this directly relates with anabolic steroids At some point people started thinking what compounds they shoot into their body is the only cycle prep needed; where, things such as nutrition, training, and bloodwork is over looked.

Without blood work, you don’t have any way to even say that your post cycle was effective. Except for the bro science of “man my nuts feel good, so everything must be okay!” I truly hope if even a small portion of you take the time to read through this, you will feel as you have better educated yourself. AND THAT’S WHAT AAS IS ALL ABOUT BABY! Think of the countless hours you’ve spent learning what compounds go together, and which are big “No No’s”

Why stop there??

WBC 5.8 [4-10.5] - - Specific type of white blood cell with an irregular shape and size. They are derived from lymph tissue. The presence of these cells usually means your immune system is being overworked. If you have these cells it could also be due to a bad infection.
RBC5.27 [4.1-5.6] - - Red blood cells (erythrocytes) are relatively large cells in the blood that transport oxygen from the lungs to all living tissue in the body. They also help to remove carbon dioxide from the body. Normally, 40% to 45% of blood volume consists of RBCs.
Hemoglobin 15.8 [12.5-17] - - A protein, which enables the RBCs to distribute oxygen throughout the body. The amount of oxygen in the body tissues depends on how much hemoglobin is in the red blood cells. Without enough hemoglobin, the tissues lack oxygen, and the heart and lungs must work harder to try to compensate. Hemoglobin gives the red color to blood.
Hemotocrit 46.7 [36-50]-- Hematocrit measures the portion of blood made up of red blood cells. Specifically, it measures the volume of red cells that transport oxygen through the blood stream to all cells of the body. This is very important; oxygen is needed for healthy organs.
MCV 89 [80-98] - MCV refers to the relative volume of each red blood cell or its average size. MCV helps determine the size oxygen-carrying capacity of individual red blood cells. Together with MCHC, MCV is used to identify types of anemia.
MCH 30 [27-34] - MCH is actually not a test. It is a calculation based on two other tests. To calculate MCH, divide the hemoglobin score by the number of red blood cells and multiply by ten. MCH reflects the average hemoglobin concentration within red blood cells.
MCHC 33.8 [32-36] - MCHC measures the relative volume of hemoglobin in the average red blood cell-that is, what portion of each red blood cell is hemoglobin. Together with MCV, MCHC is used to identify types of anemia.
RDW 16.1 [11.7-15] HIGH --This test is done to determine the size of a red blood cell. RDW must be within particular limits to properly carry oxygen.
Platelets 218 [140-415] --Platelets are produced in the bone marrow and are essential for normal blood clotting. Platelet counts may be higher in women than men. Platelets are cells in the blood, but they lack nuclei and are part of the formed elements of blood.
Neutrophils 34 [40-74] LOW--Segmented neutrophils make up more than half of the white blood cells in the body. Produced in the bone marrow, they enter the body tissues within twenty-four hours. In the event of an infection, Neutrophils destroy bacteria by engulfing them. If there is no infection, these cells self-destruct.
Lymphs 40 [14-46]-- The second most common type of white blood cell. Lymphocytes are manufactured in the spleen, lymph nodes, and intestinal-related lymph tissue. Lymphocytes produce neutralizing antibodies against viral disease.
Monocytes 20 [4-13] HIGH --The largest cells in your blood, monocytes begin their existence in the bone marrow and migrate into the bloodstream. They stay in the bloodstream for about three days, and prepare themselves for battle against infection in the body’s tissues. Monocytes engulf and digest foreign particles as well as damaged body cells that caused the reaction. Also fight bacteria, pollens, and viruses. Also help to reduce swelling by ingesting stagnant fluids in inflamed tissues.
Eos 5% [0-7%]--Eosinophils, a specific type of white blood cell, are manufactured in the bone marrow. They help fight against allergic reactions and protect the lungs, skin, and gastrointestinal tract. Also important to the body's defense against infection and in the assessment of nutritional status.
Basos 1% [0-3%]--Basophils, a specific type of white blood cell, are manufactured in the bone marrow and their purpose is to protect body tissues. They are responsible for allergic reactions, especially in deep tissues like the intestines and liver. Also important to the body's defense against infection and in the assessment of nutritional status.
Immature Granulocytes 0 [0-1] – can be an early indicator for things such as cancer or leukemia. But with an otherwise normal white blood cell count and less than 2% immature neutrophils (also called "bands") it is highly unlikely that this represents leukemia or anything else to worry about. In the setting of leukemia, the proportion of
cells (leukocytes, platelets) would be abnormal as well.

Immature Grans (abs) 0 [0-0.1] essentially meaning it is in the form of 0.1

Glucose, serum 86 [65-99] -- This is a measure of the sugar level in your blood. Glucose is a six-carbon sugar that is the main source of energy for all of the cells in the body. The rate at which it is metabolized is controlled by insulin, which is secreted by the pancreas. Elevated fasting glucose levels may be an early sign of diabetes. Low levels could indicate too much insulin in the blood
BUN 20 [6-20] -- A waste product, derived from protein breakdown, produced in the liver and excreted by way of the kidneys. High values may mean that the kidneys are not working as well as they should. Elevated in renal failure; influenced by the amount of protein intake in the diet.
Creatinine, serum 1.29 [0.76-1.27] HIGH -- A measure of the kidneys' ability to excrete waste. Comparing the excretion of creatinine to urea helps assess how well your kidneys are functioning. Malnutrition, dehydration, and liver function have little influence on creatinine levels (unlike BUN).
eGFR >59 [>59] -- Serum creatinine measurements (along with your age, weight, and gender) also are used to calculate the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which is used as a screening test to look for evidence of kidney damage
eGFRAA >59 [>59] – These show possible kidney issues. GFR in a normal kidney should be in the range of 90+ and normally wont be listed on tests unless you’re fucked. Anything below 59 will show a decrease in GFR and signify that you have a PROBLEM!!
BUN/Creatinine Ratio 16 [8-19]—this ratio is used to determine the cause of acute kidney injury. The principle behind this ratio is the fact that both urea (BUN) and creatinine are freely filtered by the glomerulus, however urea reabsorbed by the tubules can be regulated (increased or decreased) whereas creatinine reabsorption remains the same (minimal reabsorption)
Sodium138 [135-145]-- An electrolyte regulated by the kidneys and adrenal glands. Sodium helps balance water volume and pressure in body tissues. Because sodium acts as a sponge, it prevents water from overloading cells by keeping it in the bloodstream and in the fluids that surround cells. Without sodium, your body could not carry nutrients and wastes to and from cells, transmit electrical impulses throughout your nervous system, give you control of your bodily movements, or support the automatic functions of your intestinal tract.
Potassium 4.2 [3.5-5.2]-- Potassium is found primarily inside cells and is controlled very carefully by the kidneys. Potassium maintains water balance inside the cells and helps in the transmission of nerve impulses. It is very important for the proper functioning of the nerves and muscles, particularly the heart.
Progesterone- Progesterone is a steroid hormone made by both men and women. It plays an important role in pregnancies and specifically helps the body regulate the estrogen and testosterone hormones. It is wise to check the progesterone level before spending a great deal of money on additional sex hormone tests.
Chloride 100 [97-108]-- Similar to sodium, it helps to maintain the body's electrolyte balance. Almost never found out of balance alone. This element usually fluctuates with elevated or decreased levels of sodium or potassium. Important to the function of nerves, muscles, and cells. Chloride is regulated by the kidneys and adrenal glands.
CO 29 [20-32] -- A carbon monoxide blood test is used to detect poisoning from breathing carbon monoxide. You might have this test if you have been exposed to the gas or if you have unexplained symptoms, such as: trouble breathing, dizziness, headaches or vision problems.
Calcium 9.1 [8.7-10.2] -- Calcium is controlled in the blood by the parathyroid gland and the kidneys and is one of the most important elements in the body. Virtually all of the calcium in your body is found in bone (99%). That other 1% is very important for healthy bones and teeth, proper blood clotting, muscle function, and nerve, cell, and enzyme activity
Protein 6.8 [6.0-8.5]-- A total serum protein test measures the total amount of protein in the blood. It also measures the amounts of two major groups of proteins in the blood: albumin and globulin.
Albumin 4.5 [3.5-5.5]-- is made mainly in the liver. It helps keep the blood from leaking out of blood vessels. Albumin also helps carry some medicines and other substances through the blood and is important for tissue growth and healing.
Globulin 2.3 [1.5-4.5]-- is made up of different proteins called alpha, beta, and gamma types. Some globulins are made by the liver, while others are made by the immune system. Certain globulins bind with hemoglobin. Other globulins transport metals, such as iron, in the blood and help fight infection. Serum globulin can be separated into several subgroups by serum protein electrophoresis.
A/G Ratio 2.0 [1.1-2.5]-- Simply the ratio of Albumin to Globulin. Total protein levels are often elevated in persons with serious infections because of abnormally increased production of antibodies.
Bilirubin Total 0.2 [0-1.2]-- Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, a fluid made by the liver.
Alkaline Phosphatase 46 [25-150]-- An enzyme found in all body tissue, but primarily in bones, bile ducts and the liver. A high level may indicate bone, liver, or bile duct disease. Some drugs may also cause increased levels. Expected values are usually higher for children, pregnant women, those with gallstone conditions or in cases that involve damage to the bones or liver.
AST 28 [0-40] -- AST (SGOT) and ALT (SGPT) are sensitive indicators of liver damage or injury from different types of diseases. But it must be emphasized that higher-than-normal levels of these liver enzymes should not be automatically equated with liver disease. They may mean liver problems or they may not. For example, elevations of these enzymes can occur with muscle damage. The interpretation of elevated AST and ALT levels depends upon the entire clinical evaluation of an individual, and so it is best done by physicians experienced in evaluating liver disease and muscle disease.
Moreover, the precise levels of these enzymes do not correlate well with the extent of liver damage or the prognosis (outlook). Thus, the exact levels of AST (SGOT) and ALT (SGPT) cannot be used to determine the degree of liver disease or predict the future.
ALT 39 [0-55]—read above.

Normal IGF reading:
Age 16-24 (182-780 ng/mL)
Age 25-39 (114-492 ng/mL)
Age 50-55 (90-362 ng/mL)

Normal GH reading: Growth hormone (GH) is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland which is located in the center of the brain. A normal pituitary gland stores about 10 milligrams of growth hormone which is usually released in a series of pulses into the bloodstream throughout the day and night.

LIPID PROFILE

Total Cholesterol (TC)- DESIRABLE
Under < 200 mg/dL

HDL Cholesterol
High Density Lipoprotein -"Good" Cholesterol- DESIRABLE
Men - 65 mg/dL

Women - 75 mg/dL
or Higher

HDL/TC Ratio:
HDL divided by Total Cholesterol (TC) – Ideal: 0.30 or higher

Triglycerides (TRG)-
Under < 150 mg/dL
IDEAL: Under <100m/dL
When triglycerides are "severly high" (greater than < 1000 mg/dL), there is a risk of developing pancreatitis.

TRG/HDL Ratio:
Triglycerides divided by HDL –
Under < 2
Example:
110 TRG:60 HDL = < 2
The lower the number (TRG:HDL ratio), the better - the lower your risk of heart attack.

LDL Cholesterol (Low Density Lipoprotein - "Bad" Cholesterol-
OPTIMAL: Under < 100 mg/dL
VERY HIGH: 190 mg/dL and above

LDL Cholesterol FOR HEART PATIENTS—
IDEAL: Under < 70 mg/dL
(If you are a heart patient, LDL MUST be under < 70 mg/dL)
SEE YOUR DOCTOR, IF
NOT UNDER < 80 mg/dL.

Glucose (GLU):
6-Hour Fasting Blood Sugar
Under < 90
SEE YOUR DOCTOR, if 110 mg/dL or above

Insulin:
6-Hour Fasting Blood Insulin
Under < 90
SEE YOUR DOCTOR, if over 10 uU/ml

For years, testosterone was blamed for the earlier appearance of heart disease in men than in women. Yet studies now suggest the opposite possibility: that testosterone could be good for men’s hearts. Some studies, but not all, have linked higher testosterone levels with higher levels of HDL (good) cholesterol, lower blood pressure, better natural clot-busting ability, greater sensitivity to insulin, and less inflammation. Men with more testosterone seem to be less likely to develop atherosclerosis (the process leading to cholesterol-clogged arteries) and diabetes than men with lower levels.
Among men with too little testosterone, regular doses that bring the hormone into the normal range don’t harm cholesterol levels or blood pressure. Some small but intriguing studies suggest that testosterone therapy can improve the flexibility of arteries, ease activity-related chest pain (angina), and improve heart function among men with heart failure.

A low reading may prompt your doctor to check for possible causes. These may include problems with the pituitary gland or the part of the brain called the hypothalamus, both of which regulate testosterone production. Some doctors use 200 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) as a cutoff, while others use 300–400 ng/dL.

Hormone Panel

Testosterone Serum 549 [249-836]
LH 5.6 [1.7-8.6] - In both sexes, LH stimulates secretion of sex steroids from the gonads. In the testes, LH binds to receptors on Leydig cells, stimulating synthesis and secretion of testosterone. Theca cells in the ovary respond to LH stimulation by secretion of testosterone, which is converted into estrogen by adjacent granulosa cells.
Age 20-70: 1.5-9.3 mIU/mL 70+: 3.1-34.6 mIU/mL (standard reference ranges) - Under 9.3 mIU/mL - (optimal range) If these levels are high, it is an indication of testicular testosterone production deficiency
If there is too much Test present; your pituitary secretes more LH in an attempt to stimulate testosterone production. In parallel, low LH levels are a tell tale sign of an estrogen imbalane in the body!!

DHT - 20-50 Nano/dL is the optimal range. It is 10 times more androgenic that testosterone and has been linked with implicated prostate problems and hair loss

DHEA 400-560 optimal (mcg/dL) these levels diminish as you age; it is important for older men to restore them within this range to avoid having prostate issues.

PSA under 2.6 ng/mL is optimal- whereas some can go up to 4 if it is constantly high, have a blood test done to determine the free vs bound PSA levels to help rule out prostate cancer.

FSH 2.0 [1.5-12.4] -- FSH is also critical for sperm production. It supports the function of Sertoli cells, which in turn support many aspects of sperm cell maturation.

Estradiol 37.4 [7.6-42.6]

Production breakdown
GnRH stimultes secretion of LH, which in turn stimulates gonadal secretion of the sex steroids testosterone, estrogen and progesterone. In a classical negative feedback loop, sex steroids inhibit secretion of GnRH and also appear to have direct negative effects on gonadotrophs.
This regulatory loop leads to pulsatile secretion of LH and, to a much lesser extent, FSH. The number of pulses of GnRH and LH varies from a few per day to one or more per hour. In females, pulse frequency is clearly related to stage of the cycle

Male Reference Range - Test Type
•66-417 nanogram/dL FWRA
•12.3-63% %FWRA
•5-21 nanogram/dL UF or ETD
•50-210 picogram/mL UF or ETD
•1.0-2.7% % of free by UF or ETD

Estrogen (measured as estradiol) should be in the mid- to lower-normal range. If estradiol levels are in the upper one-third of the normal reference range, or above the normal reference range, this excessive level of estrogen should be reduced. Labcorp lists a reference range of between 3-70 picogram/mL for estradiol. For optimal health, it is best that you stay within the 10-30 pic/mL range!!

Just because aging men have an increased amount of estrogen, this does not mean it is acceptable for us to have abnormally low levels either. Estrogen is used to maintain bone density, whereas abnormally low levels have been linked with prostate cancer and osteoporosis. So in essence, its all about having a “happy range.”

Estrogen can be the cause for a low test level. Estrogen diminishes the LH production in your body; so if you have blood work done-you would understand sometimes running something such as a-dex would lower your estrogen, which in turn might boost your test levels. This is the beauty of understanding your body, as well as your blood work results!!

Reason why you might have low Test levels
-this section is taken as an exert because I could honestly not say it any better myself.

Too much testosterone is being converted to estradiol by excess aromatase enzyme and/or the liver is failing to adequately detoxify surplus estrogen. Excess aromatase enzyme and/or liver dysfunction is likely the cause if estradiol levels are over 30.
•
Remember, aromatase converts testosterone into estradiol, which can cause estrogen overload and testosterone deficiency.

•
Too much free testosterone is being bound by SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin). This would be especially apparent if total testosterone levels were in the high normal range, while free testosterone was below the upper one-third range.

•
The pituitary gland fails to secrete adequate amounts of luteinizing hormone (LH) to stimulate testicular production of testosterone . Total testosterone in this case would be in the bottom one-third to one-half range. (On LabCorp's scale, this would be a number below 241-500 ng/dL.)

•
The testes have lost their ability to produce testosterone , despite adequate amounts of the testicular-stimulating luteinizing hormone . In this case, LH would be above normal, and total testosterone would in very low normal or below normal ranges
.

•Inadequate amounts of DHEA are being produced in the body. (DHEA is a precursor hormone to tes-tosterone and estrogen) (250).

Hope this helps...