GLOSSARY

Development changes the reference

Hormonal patterns vary with gestation, childhood, puberty, adulthood and aging. Appropriate interpretation considers developmental stage and physiological context. A value typical of one stage can be inappropriate in another, without implying that higher hormone concentrations are always preferable.

Interpreting the mechanism

Age-related patterns provide context, while disease assessment still requires symptoms, appropriate reference information and the characteristics of the assay.

Energy and reproductive function

Sustained low energy availability can alter metabolic and reproductive regulation. Symptoms and endocrine findings require assessment of other causes as well. Restoring adequate availability is central when deficiency is contributing, but the recovery time course differs among individuals and tissues.