Laboratory Value Interpretation and Monitoring for Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy

Introduction to Guideline Recommendations

• The American Cancer Society, as represented by the Ca-A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, recommends that laboratory values for patients on gender-affirming hormone therapy be interpreted in the context of type, dose, and duration of therapy during the first 12 months, as values may change over time 1, 2, 3

Monitoring Schedule and Interpretation

• The American Cancer Society suggests initial hormone level assessment at 3 months after initiation, with continued monitoring every 3-6 months during the first year, and transitioning to annual monitoring once hormone levels are stable 3, 4
• After 12 months of consistent therapy, laboratory values should be interpreted within the reference range for affirmed gender, according to the Ca-A Cancer Journal for Clinicians 1, 2, 3

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Hormone Therapy

• The Ca-A Cancer Journal for Clinicians advises against interpreting laboratory values using sex assigned at birth reference ranges after 12 months of consistent therapy, to ensure accurate assessment of hormone levels 1, 2