DUTCH Test – The comprehensive hormone check

Precise analysis of hormonal imbalances for better well-being

Hormones have a decisive influence on our physical and mental balance. Symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disorders, mood swings, or hormone-related illnesses can indicate hormonal imbalances. The DUTCH test (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones) combines the advantages of various testing methods and enables detailed determination of stress, sex, and metabolic hormones using simple, dried urine samples.

What is the DUTCH test?

Using multiple urine samples collected on filter paper throughout the day, the DUTCH test detects not only the concentration of hormones but also their breakdown products (metabolites). This allows conclusions to be drawn about individual hormone metabolism and the activity of relevant enzymes. Using modern mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), the test provides a comprehensive and precise picture of hormonal status—including cortisol, DHEA-S, estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, and their metabolites.

Advantages and scientific basis

• Diurnal sampling: Multiple sampling allows for the mapping of diurnal fluctuations, particularly the cortisol curve, which is crucial for assessing stress and adrenal function.

• Metabolite analysis: In addition to measuring hormone levels, their breakdown products are also analyzed, which provides deeper insights into metabolic pathways and imbalances.

• Simple, non-invasive sample collection: Dried urine on filter paper facilitates collection, storage, and shipping without cold chains.

• Comprehensive hormonal assessment: The analysis includes both active and inactive forms of hormones and thus provides important information for individually tailored therapies.
  

Test procedure

The patient collects several urine samples over a defined period of time on special filter paper strips. These are then dried and sent to a specialized laboratory. There, precise analysis is carried out using LC-MS/MS. The detailed results report contains not only absolute hormone levels but also important interpretations regarding metabolic profiles and possible imbalances. Based on this, doctors or therapists can recommend targeted measures to regulate hormone balance – from diet and lifestyle adjustments to drug therapies.

Background and application

The DUTCH test was developed because conventional blood or saliva tests usually only provide snapshots and often fail to capture the complex, daily fluctuations of hormones. The comprehensive metabolite analysis provides deeper insight into hormone metabolism, which is important for numerous symptoms and conditions such as PMS, endometriosis, adrenal insufficiency, or hormone-related hair loss.

What problems are being solved?

• Clarification of non-specific complaints with hormonal origin

• Precise assessment of stress and adrenal function

• Diagnosis of complex hormonal disorders

• Support with therapy planning and follow-up
  

Scientific validation

Numerous studies confirm the high accuracy and predictive power of the DUTCH test compared to traditional methods. The detailed analysis of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and sex hormone metabolic pathways makes it a valuable tool in modern hormonal diagnostics.