The reference ranges for biochemical results can be misleading in endocrinology because reference ranges are usually defined by looking at ‘normal’ people. An abnormal value may be appropriate in an… Click to show full abstract
The reference ranges for biochemical results can be misleading in endocrinology because reference ranges are usually defined by looking at ‘normal’ people. An abnormal value may be appropriate in an unwell patient, and it is important to know when to ignore results. In addition, it is important to recognize that investigations of endocrine diseases depend on biochemical results and that the cut-off set determines the sensitivity and specificity of such tests. Replacement of circadian hormones is a particular challenge, and using analogues with longer half-lives than the native hormone can help.
               
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