Labs & Biomarkers
Your Well-Being,
Assessed Thoroughly
Explore each panel to see what every marker means and why it matters. When you find the ones that fit your goals, book a visit and our clinical team orders them for you. No insurance hassle, no waiting room.
140+Biomarkers
13Health Systems
48hrRequisition
2,000+Draw Sites
✓ HSA / FSA Eligible · LabCorp & Quest Nationwide
Popular Panel Bundles
Add a curated set in one click · Panels can still be customized
Most Popular
Foundation Panel
The baseline every adult should have. Catches insulin resistance, kidney decline, liver stress, and anemia before symptoms appear.
MetabolicKidneyLiverBlood CBC
TRT & HRT
Hormone Optimization Panel
Full endocrine picture required for TRT, BHRT, or perimenopause evaluation. Includes thyroid conversion markers and inflammatory context.
HormoneThyroidInflammation
Preventive
Cardiometabolic Panel
Advanced cardiovascular risk with ApoB, Lp(a), hs-CRP, fasting insulin, and HOMA-IR. Catches the risk markers most PCPs never order.
HeartMetabolicInflammationKidney
Heart Health
Cardiovascular risk · Lipid particles · Inflammation markers
HSA/FSA
Your heart and blood vessels carry oxygen and nutrients to every tissue. This panel looks well past a standard cholesterol test, adding ApoB, Lp(a), and hs-CRP to catch risk that basic lipid panels miss.
→ Book This PanelTotal CholesterolFoundational▾
What it measures
The total amount of cholesterol in your blood including LDL, HDL, and VLDL fractions.
Why it matters
Elevated total cholesterol is associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk. The starting point for evaluating your lipid profile.
Optimal / normal range
< 200 mg/dL
LDL Cholesterol (Low-Density Lipoprotein)High Priority▾
What it measures
The ‘bad cholesterol’ that builds up in artery walls, contributing to plaque formation and vessel narrowing.
Why it matters
One of the primary modifiable risk factors for heart attack and stroke. The key target for lifestyle and medication interventions.
Optimal / normal range
< 100 mg/dL (optimal)
HDL Cholesterol (High-Density Lipoprotein)▾
What it measures
The ‘good cholesterol’ that carries cholesterol from arteries back to the liver for removal.
Why it matters
Higher HDL is associated with reduced cardiovascular risk. Low HDL is an independent risk factor even with normal LDL.
Optimal / normal range
> 60 mg/dL
Triglycerides▾
What it measures
A type of fat derived primarily from carbohydrates and excess caloric intake, stored in blood and fat cells.
Why it matters
Elevated triglycerides increase cardiovascular risk and are closely linked to insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.
Optimal / normal range
< 150 mg/dL
Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)Advanced Marker▾
What it measures
The total number of LDL and other atherogenic particles. Each particle carries one ApoB molecule, a direct particle count.
Why it matters
A more accurate predictor of cardiovascular risk than LDL-C alone, particularly in metabolic syndrome. The American Heart Association increasingly recommends ApoB testing as the preferred measure for assessing atherogenic risk. Often normal LDL masks high ApoB.
Optimal / normal range
< 90 mg/dL
Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a))Advanced Marker▾
What it measures
A genetically determined, highly atherogenic lipoprotein particle. Levels are largely set by genetics, not lifestyle.
Why it matters
Significantly increases heart attack and stroke risk even in people with otherwise healthy lipid panels. Excluded from most standard panels.
Optimal / normal range
< 30 mg/dL
High-Sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP)High Priority▾
What it measures
A highly sensitive measure of systemic inflammation produced by the liver in response to inflammatory signals.
Why it matters
A stronger predictor of cardiovascular events than LDL cholesterol. Key marker for metabolic inflammation and insulin resistance.
Optimal / normal range
< 1.0 mg/L (low risk)
Non-HDL Cholesterol▾
What it measures
Total cholesterol minus HDL cholesterol, representing all atherogenic cholesterol fractions combined.
Why it matters
A broader risk marker than LDL alone that captures VLDL and IDL particles. Particularly useful when triglycerides are elevated.
Optimal / normal range
< 130 mg/dL (optimal)
Metabolic Health
Glucose control · Insulin sensitivity · Metabolic syndrome
HSA/FSA
Your metabolism powers every organ. Beyond a standard glucose check, this panel adds fasting insulin and HOMA-IR to flag insulin resistance years before blood sugar starts to climb.
→ Book This PanelFasting Glucose▾
What it measures
Your blood sugar level after an overnight fast of at least 8 hours.
Why it matters
Elevated fasting glucose indicates impaired insulin function and may signal prediabetes or type 2 diabetes before symptoms appear.
Optimal / normal range
70 to 99 mg/dL
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)High Priority▾
What it measures
The percentage of hemoglobin with glucose attached, reflecting your average blood sugar over the past 2 to 3 months.
Why it matters
The gold standard for long-term glucose monitoring per the American Diabetes Association. Cannot be improved by short-term dietary changes before the test.
Optimal / normal range
< 5.7% (normal)
Fasting InsulinOften Missed▾
What it measures
Insulin level after an overnight fast, reflecting how hard your pancreas is working to manage baseline blood sugar.
Why it matters
Often the earliest sign of insulin resistance, years before glucose or HbA1c become abnormal. Excluded from most standard panels.
Optimal / normal range
2 to 6 uIU/mL (optimal)
HOMA-IR (Insulin Resistance Index)Calculated▾
What it measures
A calculated index from fasting glucose and insulin that estimates your degree of insulin resistance.
Why it matters
Provides a single actionable number quantifying insulin resistance severity, guiding GLP-1 candidacy and weight loss protocol decisions.
Optimal / normal range
< 1.0 (optimal)
Uric Acid▾
What it measures
A breakdown product of purines filtered by the kidneys. Excess accumulates in joints and soft tissue.
Why it matters
Causes gout and is an independent risk factor for hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and kidney disease.
Optimal / normal range
Men: 3.4-7.0 mg/dLWomen: 2.4-6.0 mg/dL
What Standard Labs Miss
Your doctor’s standard panel checks 10-14 markers.
Tactus panels check 140+.
Tactus panels check 140+.
A standard CMP and CBC ordered through most PCPs covers total cholesterol, glucose, a handful of liver enzymes, and a basic blood count. It will not include fasting insulin, ApoB, Lp(a), free testosterone, Reverse T3, TPO antibodies, Cystatin-C, or hs-CRP at the sensitivity needed to predict events before symptoms appear.
140+
Markers
Available
Available
Hormone Health
TRT · BHRT · Reproductive hormones · Cortisol · Growth factors
HSA/FSA
Your hormones shape energy, mood, body composition, and libido. This panel goes well beyond testosterone or estrogen alone, adding free testosterone, DHT, AMH, and IGF-1 for the full picture.
→ Book This PanelTotal TestosteroneTRT Essential▾
What it measures
Total concentration of testosterone including both protein-bound and unbound forms.
Why it matters
Drives muscle mass, energy, libido, mood, and metabolic function in both men and women. The primary diagnostic threshold for TRT candidacy.
Optimal / normal range
Men (functional optimum): 400-700 ng/dLWomen: 15-70 ng/dL
Free TestosteroneTRT Essential▾
What it measures
Portion of testosterone not bound to SHBG or albumin, therefore biologically active and available to tissues.
Why it matters
A patient can have normal total testosterone but low free testosterone if SHBG is elevated. Symptoms are driven by free levels.
Optimal / normal range
Men: 15-25 pg/mLWomen: 0.3-1.9 pg/mL
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)MaleTRT Monitoring▾
What it measures
The most potent androgen, converted from testosterone by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase in peripheral tissues.
Why it matters
DHT drives prostate growth, male pattern hair loss, and androgenic side effects in TRT patients. Elevated DHT may require clinical intervention. Excluded from most standard testosterone panels.
Optimal / normal range
Men: 30-85 ng/dL
Estradiol (E2)HRT Essential▾
What it measures
The primary and most potent form of estrogen, produced in the ovaries, adrenal glands, and through aromatization of testosterone.
Why it matters
In women, governs the menstrual cycle, bone density, cardiovascular health, and mood. In men on TRT, elevated estradiol from aromatization can cause side effects requiring dose adjustment.
Optimal / normal range
Men: 10-40 pg/mLWomen: 30-400 pg/mL (cycle-dependent)
ProgesteroneFemaleHRT Essential▾
What it measures
A steroid hormone produced by the corpus luteum after ovulation and by the adrenal glands.
Why it matters
Essential for cycle regulation, sleep quality, anxiety management, and uterine health. Often the first hormone to decline in perimenopause.
Optimal / normal range
Luteal phase: 1.8-24 ng/mL
Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH)FemaleOvarian Reserve▾
What it measures
A hormone produced by follicles in the ovaries, directly reflecting the remaining egg supply.
Why it matters
AMH is the most accurate single marker of ovarian reserve. Declining AMH years before FSH becomes abnormal is often the first objective signal of the perimenopause transition.
Optimal / normal range
Reproductive age: 1.0-3.5 ng/mL
Estrone (E1)Female▾
What it measures
The primary estrogen in postmenopausal women, produced peripherally from androstenedione in fat tissue.
Why it matters
Estrone dominance relative to estradiol is common in perimenopause and post-menopause and contributes to estrogen-related symptoms despite the appearance of ‘normal’ total estrogen.
Optimal / normal range
Postmenopause: 7-40 pg/mL
AndrostenedioneFemalePCOS Marker▾
What it measures
An androgen precursor produced by the adrenal glands and ovaries, converted peripherally to testosterone and estrogens.
Why it matters
Elevated androstenedione is a hallmark of PCOS and adrenal dysfunction. Drives androgenic symptoms like acne, hirsutism, and cycle irregularities even when testosterone appears normal.
Optimal / normal range
40-190 ng/dL
Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1)Peptide Monitoring▾
What it measures
A hormone produced primarily by the liver in response to growth hormone stimulation.
Why it matters
IGF-1 is the primary clinical surrogate for growth hormone status. Required baseline and monitoring marker for patients on sermorelin, ipamorelin, or other growth hormone secretagogues.
Optimal / normal range
Adults: 100-300 ng/mL
LH (Luteinizing Hormone)▾
What it measures
A pituitary hormone signaling the gonads to produce sex hormones and triggering ovulation in women.
Why it matters
Helps determine whether hormonal imbalances originate from the pituitary axis (secondary hypogonadism) or the gonads themselves (primary hypogonadism).
Optimal / normal range
Men: 1.7-8.6 IU/LWomen: 1.7-15 IU/L (cycle-dependent)
FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone)Perimenopause Key▾
What it measures
Pituitary hormone regulating reproductive function, stimulating egg and sperm production.
Why it matters
Elevated FSH in women is a key marker of ovarian reserve decline and perimenopause. Rises as AMH declines, confirming the transition.
Optimal / normal range
Men: 1.5-12.4 IU/LWomen follicular: 3.5-12.5 IU/L
SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)▾
What it measures
A protein that binds tightly to testosterone and estrogen, rendering them inactive until released.
Why it matters
High SHBG reduces available free testosterone even when total levels appear normal. Low SHBG can artificially inflate total testosterone readings.
Optimal / normal range
Men: 16-55 nmol/LWomen: 18-144 nmol/L
DHEA-Sulfate (DHEA-S)▾
What it measures
A hormone from the adrenal glands serving as a precursor to both testosterone and estrogen.
Why it matters
DHEA-S declines significantly with age, associated with reduced energy, immune function, and muscle mass.
Optimal / normal range
Men: 100-500 mcg/dLWomen: 35-430 mcg/dL
Prolactin▾
What it measures
A pituitary hormone associated with lactation but present in both sexes at baseline levels.
Why it matters
Elevated prolactin in men suppresses testosterone production. In women it can disrupt the menstrual cycle.
Optimal / normal range
Men: 2-18 ng/mLWomen: 3-30 ng/mL
PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen)MaleTRT Monitoring▾
What it measures
A protein produced by prostate gland cells. Elevated PSA may indicate prostate enlargement, inflammation, or cancer.
Why it matters
Baseline and periodic PSA monitoring is required for men on TRT. Testosterone therapy does not cause prostate cancer but may accelerate subclinical disease.
Optimal / normal range
Men under 50: < 2.5 ng/mL
AM CortisolStress Marker▾
What it measures
Cortisol measured at peak morning levels, reflecting hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function.
Why it matters
Chronically elevated cortisol drives fat storage, suppresses testosterone, disrupts sleep, and contributes to insulin resistance.
Optimal / normal range
6-23 mcg/dL (7-9 AM draw)
Inflammation & Stress
hs-CRP · Homocysteine · Cortisol · Coagulation markers
HSA/FSA
Quiet, ongoing inflammation drives many metabolic and hormonal problems long before you feel anything. This panel adds homocysteine and fibrinogen that a standard metabolic panel leaves out.
→ Book This Panelhs-CRP (High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein)High Priority▾
What it measures
A highly sensitive measure of systemic inflammation produced by the liver in response to inflammatory signals throughout the body.
Why it matters
A stronger predictor of future cardiovascular events than LDL cholesterol. Key marker for metabolic inflammation and insulin resistance.
Optimal / normal range
< 1.0 mg/L
Homocysteine▾
What it measures
An amino acid from methionine metabolism. Elevated levels are directly toxic to blood vessel walls.
Why it matters
Independent risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and cognitive decline. Often driven by correctable B12, folate, or B6 deficiency.
Optimal / normal range
< 10 umol/L (optimal)
AM CortisolStress Marker▾
What it measures
Cortisol at peak morning levels, reflecting HPA axis function and chronic stress burden.
Why it matters
Chronically elevated cortisol drives visceral fat storage, suppresses testosterone, and contributes to insulin resistance.
Optimal / normal range
6-23 mcg/dL (7-9 AM draw)
ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)▾
What it measures
The rate at which red blood cells settle in a tube over one hour. Inflammation causes cells to clump and settle faster.
Why it matters
A nonspecific but sensitive indicator of systemic inflammation. Used alongside hs-CRP to detect inflammatory processes.
Optimal / normal range
Men < 15 mm/hrWomen < 20 mm/hr
FerritinDual Purpose▾
What it measures
The primary iron storage protein. Also functions as an acute-phase reactant that rises during inflammation.
Why it matters
Very low ferritin indicates iron deficiency before anemia develops. Very high ferritin signals systemic inflammation, hemochromatosis, or metabolic dysfunction.
Optimal / normal range
Men: 30-300 ng/mLWomen: 15-200 ng/mL
Fibrinogen▾
What it measures
A clotting protein from the liver that increases during acute inflammation and infection.
Why it matters
Chronically elevated fibrinogen increases thrombotic risk. An independent cardiovascular risk factor, particularly relevant for patients on testosterone therapy.
Optimal / normal range
200-400 mg/dL
Thyroid Health
Full panel beyond TSH · T3/T4 conversion · Hashimoto antibodies
HSA/FSA
Your thyroid sets your metabolism, temperature, and energy. This panel goes beyond TSH to Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3, and antibodies, revealing conversion and autoimmune issues a basic test misses.
→ Book This PanelTSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)Screening Marker▾
What it measures
The pituitary hormone signaling the thyroid to produce T3 and T4. The primary screening marker for thyroid dysfunction.
Why it matters
Elevated TSH indicates the pituitary is working harder to stimulate an underactive thyroid. Low TSH may indicate overactive thyroid or over-replacement on medication.
Optimal / normal range
0.5-2.5 mIU/L (functional optimum)
Free T3 (Triiodothyronine)Active Hormone▾
What it measures
The biologically active form of thyroid hormone that directly acts on cells and tissues throughout the body.
Why it matters
Many patients with normal TSH have low Free T3 due to poor T4-to-T3 conversion. Remains undetected if only TSH is checked.
Optimal / normal range
3.2-4.4 pg/mL (functional)
Free T4 (Thyroxine)▾
What it measures
The storage form of thyroid hormone produced by the thyroid gland, converted to active Free T3 in peripheral tissues.
Why it matters
Normal Free T4 with low Free T3 suggests a conversion problem rather than primary thyroid disease, requiring a different clinical approach.
Optimal / normal range
0.8-1.8 ng/dL
Reverse T3 (rT3)Conversion Marker▾
What it measures
An inactive form of thyroid hormone produced when T4 is converted away from Free T3 under stress or illness.
Why it matters
Elevated Reverse T3 effectively blocks Free T3 from acting on cells, causing hypothyroid symptoms despite normal TSH and T4. Excluded from virtually all standard thyroid panels.
Optimal / normal range
9.2-24.1 ng/dL (lower is better in context)
TPO Antibodies (Thyroid Peroxidase)Hashimoto Marker▾
What it measures
Antibodies that attack thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme essential for thyroid hormone production.
Why it matters
The hallmark of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis per the American Thyroid Association, the most common cause of hypothyroidism. Present years before TSH becomes abnormal.
Optimal / normal range
< 35 IU/mL
TG Antibodies (Thyroglobulin)Hashimoto Marker▾
What it measures
Antibodies directed against thyroglobulin, a protein involved in thyroid hormone synthesis.
Why it matters
Found in about 60-70% of Hashimoto’s cases. Checking both TPO and TG antibodies increases detection sensitivity significantly.
Optimal / normal range
< 20 IU/mL
Kidney Health
Filtration rate · eGFR · Cystatin-C · Protein clearance
HSA/FSA
Your kidneys filter your blood around the clock. This panel adds Cystatin-C for a truer filtration rate, which matters most if you take GLP-1 medications, high-dose supplements, or testosterone.
→ Book This PanelCreatinine▾
What it measures
A waste product of muscle metabolism filtered almost entirely by the kidneys. Blood levels rise when kidney filtration declines.
Why it matters
One of the earliest detectable signs of declining kidney function.
Optimal / normal range
Men: 0.7-1.3 mg/dLWomen: 0.6-1.1 mg/dL
BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen)▾
What it measures
A waste product from protein breakdown filtered by the kidneys, reflecting both protein intake and kidney clearance efficiency.
Why it matters
Elevated BUN can indicate reduced kidney clearance, dehydration, or excessive protein intake. Must be interpreted alongside creatinine.
Optimal / normal range
7-25 mg/dL
eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate)Key Marker▾
What it measures
A calculated estimate of how many milliliters of blood your kidneys filter per minute, adjusted for age, sex, and body size.
Why it matters
The most clinically meaningful single number for kidney function. Values below 60 indicate chronic kidney disease.
Optimal / normal range
> 90 mL/min/1.73m²
Cystatin-CAdvanced Marker▾
What it measures
A protein filtered by the kidneys that provides a more accurate measure of filtration rate than creatinine, unaffected by muscle mass.
Why it matters
In patients with high muscle mass (bodybuilders, athletes, TRT patients), creatinine overestimates kidney function. Cystatin-C gives a true picture. Also detects early kidney decline before creatinine rises. Excluded from most standard panels.
Optimal / normal range
0.53-0.95 mg/L (optimal)
BUN/Creatinine Ratio▾
What it measures
The mathematical ratio of blood urea nitrogen to creatinine, used to distinguish between causes of elevated BUN.
Why it matters
A high ratio suggests dehydration or excessive protein intake rather than true kidney disease. Helps contextualize elevated BUN readings.
Optimal / normal range
10-20 (normal range)
Liver Health
Enzyme function · Detox capacity · TRT monitoring required
HSA/FSA
Your liver handles detox, hormone processing, and protein production. This panel adds GGT and a full protein read beyond a standard liver test, and it is essential monitoring on testosterone or peptides.
→ Book This PanelALT (Alanine Aminotransferase)TRT Monitoring▾
What it measures
An enzyme found primarily in the liver that leaks into the bloodstream when liver cells are damaged.
Why it matters
The most specific marker of liver cell injury. Primary enzyme monitored in patients on TRT and compounded medications.
Optimal / normal range
7-40 U/L
AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase)▾
What it measures
An enzyme in the liver, heart, and muscle released when cells are damaged.
Why it matters
Less liver-specific than ALT, but the AST/ALT ratio provides important diagnostic information about the type of liver injury.
Optimal / normal range
10-40 U/L
GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase)Often Missed▾
What it measures
A liver enzyme sensitive to alcohol, fatty liver disease, bile duct obstruction, and certain medications.
Why it matters
Often elevated before ALT and AST in early alcohol-related or metabolic liver disease. Excluded from most standard CMP tests.
Optimal / normal range
Men: 8-61 U/LWomen: 5-36 U/L
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)▾
What it measures
An enzyme produced by the liver, bone, and digestive system. Elevation can reflect liver or bone disease.
Why it matters
Elevated ALP combined with elevated GGT specifically points to bile duct or liver disease rather than bone.
Optimal / normal range
44-147 U/L
Albumin▾
What it measures
The most abundant protein in blood, produced exclusively by the liver. Maintains oncotic pressure and transports hormones and medications.
Why it matters
Low albumin indicates chronic liver disease, malnutrition, or systemic illness. Also affects accuracy of total testosterone measurements.
Optimal / normal range
3.5-5.0 g/dL
Total Bilirubin▾
What it measures
A yellow compound from hemoglobin breakdown, processed and excreted by the liver.
Why it matters
Elevated bilirubin causes jaundice and may indicate liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or accelerated red blood cell destruction.
Optimal / normal range
0.1-1.2 mg/dL
Total Protein▾
What it measures
The combined measure of albumin and globulin proteins in the blood, both produced or cleared by the liver.
Why it matters
Low total protein reflects reduced liver synthetic function. The ratio of albumin to globulin (A/G ratio) helps detect specific liver and immune conditions.
Optimal / normal range
6.3-8.2 g/dL
For TRT & Peptide Patients
Clinical monitoring is not optional.
It is what separates therapy from guesswork.
It is what separates therapy from guesswork.
Testosterone therapy elevates hematocrit, affects liver enzymes, converts to estradiol, and raises PSA. Peptide protocols require IGF-1 baseline and follow-up. Every patient on TRT, HRT, or sermorelin needs a monitoring panel every 6-12 weeks. Our clinical team orders these for every active patient, with protocols set by our Medical Director, Dr. Ashar N., and you can also order them independently between visits.
6
TRT Critical
Markers
Markers
Immune Defense
WBC differential · Infection markers · Immune cell counts
HSA/FSA
Your immune system decides how well you fight infection and bounce back. This panel breaks your white blood cells into their full differential, detail a basic blood count usually skips.
→ Book This PanelWBC (White Blood Cell Count)▾
What it measures
Total number of immune cells in your blood including all white blood cell types combined.
Why it matters
Very high WBC indicates infection or inflammation. Very low WBC suggests immune suppression from illness, medications, or nutritional deficiency.
Optimal / normal range
4.5-11.0 x10³/uL
Neutrophils▾
What it measures
The most abundant white blood cell type, serving as the first line of defense against bacterial infections.
Why it matters
Elevated neutrophils indicate bacterial infection or chronic inflammation. Low neutrophils significantly impairs ability to fight infections.
Optimal / normal range
1.8-7.7 x10³/uL
Lymphocytes▾
What it measures
White blood cells coordinating adaptive immune responses: T-cells for cellular immunity, B-cells for antibody production.
Why it matters
Low lymphocytes compromise the body’s ability to fight viral infections and produce antibodies effectively.
Optimal / normal range
1.0-4.8 x10³/uL
Monocytes▾
What it measures
Immune cells that engulf pathogens and debris, developing into macrophages in tissues.
Why it matters
Chronically elevated monocytes are associated with systemic inflammation and cardiovascular risk.
Optimal / normal range
0.2-0.95 x10³/uL
Eosinophils▾
What it measures
White blood cells involved in allergic reactions and defense against parasitic infections.
Why it matters
Elevated eosinophils may indicate allergic disease or asthma. Persistently high levels can damage organs through toxic protein release.
Optimal / normal range
0.05-0.5 x10³/uL
Basophils▾
What it measures
The rarest white blood cell type, involved in inflammatory reactions and histamine release during allergic responses.
Why it matters
Persistently high basophil counts can be associated with allergic disease or hematologic conditions.
Optimal / normal range
0.01-0.1 x10³/uL
Vitamins & Nutrients
Vitamin D · B12 · Magnesium · Iron · Omega-3 index
HSA/FSA
Vitamins and minerals fuel energy, immunity, and hormones. This panel checks nine micronutrients most primary care visits skip, including the Omega-3 Index linked to long-term heart health.
→ Book This PanelVitamin D3 (25-Hydroxyvitamin D)Most Common Deficiency▾
What it measures
The primary circulating storage form of vitamin D, reflecting both dietary intake and sun exposure.
Why it matters
Affects immune function, testosterone production, bone density, cardiovascular health, and mood regulation. Per the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, roughly 42% of Americans are deficient.
Optimal / normal range
50-80 ng/mL (functional optimum)
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)GLP-1 Risk▾
What it measures
A water-soluble vitamin essential for red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis, nerve function, and methionine metabolism.
Why it matters
B12 deficiency is common in patients on metformin and GLP-1 medications. Severe deficiency causes irreversible nerve damage.
Optimal / normal range
400-900 pg/mL (optimal)
Folate (Vitamin B9)▾
What it measures
A B vitamin essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and homocysteine clearance.
Why it matters
Low folate elevates homocysteine, increasing cardiovascular and cognitive risk. Can mask B12 deficiency on a CBC.
Optimal / normal range
> 5.9 ng/mL
Magnesium (RBC Magnesium)Often Missed▾
What it measures
Magnesium inside red blood cells, which more accurately reflects tissue-level stores than standard serum magnesium.
Why it matters
Involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions including glucose metabolism, muscle contraction, and sleep regulation. Deficiency is common and often missed by serum testing.
Optimal / normal range
5.2-6.5 mg/dL (RBC)
Iron▾
What it measures
Circulating iron level in the blood, reflecting immediate availability for hemoglobin synthesis and oxygen transport.
Why it matters
One of the most common nutritional deficiencies worldwide. A leading cause of fatigue, poor exercise tolerance, and cognitive impairment.
Optimal / normal range
Men: 65-175 mcg/dLWomen: 50-170 mcg/dL
FerritinDual Purpose▾
What it measures
The primary iron storage protein in the body. Low ferritin indicates iron depletion; high ferritin signals inflammation or iron overload.
Why it matters
Ferritin can be abnormal long before serum iron changes. The key marker for diagnosing iron deficiency in patients whose CBC appears normal.
Optimal / normal range
Men: 30-300 ng/mLWomen: 15-200 ng/mL
Omega-3 IndexAdvanced Marker▾
What it measures
The percentage of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids in red blood cell membranes, reflecting long-term omega-3 status.
Why it matters
The Omega-3 Index is a stronger predictor of cardiovascular mortality risk than most standard lipid markers. An index below 4% is considered high risk. This marker is excluded from virtually all standard panels.
Optimal / normal range
> 8% (optimal cardiovascular protection)
Zinc▾
What it measures
An essential trace mineral required for immune function, wound healing, protein synthesis, and testosterone production.
Why it matters
Zinc deficiency is common in athletes and older adults and directly suppresses testosterone synthesis. Low zinc also impairs immune response and wound healing.
Optimal / normal range
0.66-1.10 mcg/mL
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)▾
What it measures
A water-soluble vitamin essential for over 100 enzymatic reactions including amino acid metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis.
Why it matters
Low B6 elevates homocysteine and contributes to neuropathy, depression, and immune dysfunction. Commonly deficient in patients on oral contraceptives or with poor dietary diversity.
Optimal / normal range
5-50 ng/mL
Blood (CBC)
Hemoglobin · Hematocrit · Platelet count · TRT monitoring
HSA/FSA
A complete blood count maps every major blood cell type in one snapshot. The full nine-marker differential is key for tracking hematocrit on testosterone and catching nutrient-related anemia early.
→ Book This PanelHemoglobin▾
What it measures
The protein in red blood cells carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.
Why it matters
Low hemoglobin indicates anemia. High hemoglobin in TRT patients can indicate erythrocytosis from elevated hematocrit.
Optimal / normal range
Men: 13.5-17.5 g/dLWomen: 12.0-15.5 g/dL
Hematocrit (HCT)TRT Critical▾
What it measures
The percentage of blood volume occupied by red blood cells.
Why it matters
Hematocrit elevation is the most common reason TRT patients need dose adjustment or therapeutic phlebotomy. Elevated levels increase blood viscosity and thrombotic risk. Monitored every 3-6 months on TRT.
Optimal / normal range
Men: 41-53% (TRT threshold: < 54%)Women: 36-48%
Platelet Count▾
What it measures
The number of thrombocytes per microliter of blood, essential for blood clotting and wound healing.
Why it matters
Low platelet count causes excessive bleeding. High platelet count increases clotting risk. Both can be caused by medications or nutritional deficiencies.
Optimal / normal range
150-400 x10³/uL
Red Blood Cell Count (RBC)▾
What it measures
Total number of red blood cells per microliter of blood.
Why it matters
Low RBC causes anemia. Elevated RBC with elevated hematocrit in TRT patients indicates erythrocytosis requiring clinical attention.
Optimal / normal range
Men: 4.5-5.9 x10⁶/uLWomen: 4.1-5.1 x10⁶/uL
MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume)▾
What it measures
The average size of red blood cells.
Why it matters
Helps classify the cause of anemia. Low MCV (microcytic) suggests iron deficiency. High MCV (macrocytic) suggests B12 or folate deficiency.
Optimal / normal range
80-100 fL
MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin)▾
What it measures
The average amount of hemoglobin contained in each red blood cell.
Why it matters
Low MCH indicates hypochromic anemia, typically from iron deficiency. Used alongside MCV to classify anemia type precisely.
Optimal / normal range
27-33 pg
MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration)▾
What it measures
The concentration of hemoglobin within a given volume of red blood cells.
Why it matters
Low MCHC indicates iron deficiency anemia. Elevated MCHC can occur in hereditary spherocytosis.
Optimal / normal range
32-36 g/dL
RDW (Red Cell Distribution Width)▾
What it measures
Variation in size of circulating red blood cells. Higher RDW means cells vary more in size.
Why it matters
Helps differentiate types of anemia. Also independently associated with increased cardiovascular risk in population studies.
Optimal / normal range
11.5-14.5%
MPV (Mean Platelet Volume)▾
What it measures
The average size of platelets. Larger platelets are more metabolically active.
Why it matters
Elevated MPV is associated with increased platelet activity, arterial thrombosis, and cardiovascular events.
Optimal / normal range
7.5-12.5 fL
Urinalysis
Kidney damage signals · Infection · Glucose · Protein
HSA/FSA
A complete urinalysis opens a window into kidney, metabolic, and urinary health that blood alone cannot show. This ten-marker panel can flag protein and early kidney stress before other tests change.
→ Book This PanelSpecific Gravity▾
What it measures
A measure of urine concentration reflecting how well the kidneys are concentrating and diluting urine.
Why it matters
Consistently dilute urine may indicate diabetes insipidus or excessive fluid intake. Very concentrated urine may indicate dehydration or kidney concentrating defects.
Optimal / normal range
1.002-1.030
Urine pH▾
What it measures
The acidity or alkalinity of the urine, reflecting acid-base metabolism and dietary patterns.
Why it matters
Persistently acidic urine increases uric acid kidney stone risk. Persistently alkaline urine may indicate urinary tract infection or renal tubular acidosis.
Optimal / normal range
4.5-8.0 (normal range)
Urine ProteinKidney Risk▾
What it measures
The presence and amount of protein leaking into the urine from the kidney filtration system.
Why it matters
Proteinuria is one of the earliest signs of kidney damage from diabetes, hypertension, or chronic kidney disease. It can be present long before creatinine or eGFR deteriorate.
Optimal / normal range
Negative (< 14 mg/dL)
Urine Glucose▾
What it measures
The presence of glucose in the urine, which normally should be fully reabsorbed by the kidneys.
Why it matters
Glucose in the urine typically indicates blood sugar levels exceeding the renal threshold, signaling uncontrolled diabetes or very high glucose intake.
Optimal / normal range
Negative
Urine Ketones▾
What it measures
Ketone bodies in the urine, produced when the body burns fat for fuel rather than glucose.
Why it matters
Moderate ketones are expected on low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diets and during extended fasting. Very high ketones with glucose may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis.
Optimal / normal range
Negative (in non-fasting, non-keto state)
Occult Blood▾
What it measures
The presence of blood in the urine, which may be visible (gross hematuria) or microscopic (occult).
Why it matters
Occult blood in urine may indicate kidney stones, urinary tract infection, kidney disease, or in men, prostate issues. Requires follow-up evaluation.
Optimal / normal range
Negative
WBC EsteraseInfection Marker▾
What it measures
A chemical marker of white blood cell activity in the urine, indicating urinary tract infection or inflammation.
Why it matters
Positive WBC esterase suggests a urinary tract infection or urinary inflammation, even before symptoms are severe.
Optimal / normal range
Negative
Urine NitriteInfection Marker▾
What it measures
The presence of nitrites produced by certain bacteria in the urinary tract.
Why it matters
Positive nitrite strongly suggests bacterial urinary tract infection. Particularly useful alongside WBC esterase for UTI diagnosis.
Optimal / normal range
Negative
Urine Bilirubin▾
What it measures
Bilirubin in the urine, which should normally be absent since healthy livers conjugate and excrete bilirubin through the bile.
Why it matters
Positive urine bilirubin indicates liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or viral hepatitis. A sensitive early marker of hepatic dysfunction.
Optimal / normal range
Negative
Urobilinogen▾
What it measures
A product of bilirubin breakdown by gut bacteria, a small amount of which is normally reabsorbed and excreted in urine.
Why it matters
Elevated urobilinogen may indicate liver disease or increased red blood cell breakdown. Absent urobilinogen may indicate bile duct obstruction.
Optimal / normal range
0.1-1.0 EU/dL (normal trace)
Heavy Metals
Lead · Mercury · Arsenic · Cadmium toxicity screening
HSA/FSA
Lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium build up quietly from water, seafood, and the environment. Standard panels never check them, yet they can drive fatigue, brain fog, and hormone disruption.
→ Book This PanelLead (Pb)▾
What it measures
A toxic heavy metal that accumulates in bone and soft tissue, disrupting multiple biological systems.
Why it matters
Even low-level lead exposure impairs cognition, disrupts hormone production, and damages kidney function. Sources include old paint, contaminated water pipes, and certain imported products.
Optimal / normal range
< 5 mcg/dL (no safe level exists)
Mercury (Hg)▾
What it measures
A neurotoxic heavy metal found in methylmercury form primarily through high-tuna and swordfish consumption.
Why it matters
Mercury accumulates in neurological tissue and disrupts thyroid function, immune regulation, and mitochondrial energy production. High seafood consumers are at elevated risk.
Optimal / normal range
< 10 mcg/L (whole blood)
Arsenic (As)▾
What it measures
A toxic metalloid found in drinking water, rice, and certain agricultural products.
Why it matters
Chronic low-level arsenic exposure increases risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. It is more prevalent in well water and rice-heavy diets than most people expect.
Optimal / normal range
< 35 mcg/L (urine)
Cadmium (Cd)▾
What it measures
A toxic heavy metal found primarily in cigarette smoke, contaminated food, and some industrial exposures.
Why it matters
Cadmium specifically targets kidneys and bone, causing progressive kidney damage and accelerated bone loss. The primary non-smoke toxin driving harm in smokers and former smokers.
Optimal / normal range
< 1.0 mcg/L (urine)
Genetic Health Markers
ApoE · MTHFR · Androgen receptor sensitivity · Lifetime risk
HSA/FSA
These one-time tests reveal inherited risks you carry for life, including ApoE, MTHFR, and androgen receptor sensitivity. They set your baseline so prevention can start years earlier.
→ Book This PanelApoE Genotype (Apolipoprotein E)Lifetime Risk▾
What it measures
A genetic test identifying which variant of the APOE gene you carry (e2, e3, or e4), each with different effects on cholesterol metabolism and dementia risk.
Why it matters
ApoE4 carriers have a significantly elevated risk of both cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s dementia per NCBI clinical genetics references. A one-time test that never changes. Knowing your ApoE status allows proactive cardiovascular and cognitive prevention strategies decades earlier than symptom onset.
Optimal / normal range
ApoE3/E3 = lowest risk; ApoE4 carriers = elevated risk
MTHFR Gene Variant (Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase)Methylation Marker▾
What it measures
A genetic test identifying variants in the MTHFR gene, which encodes an enzyme central to folate metabolism and methylation.
Why it matters
MTHFR variants (C677T and A1298C) reduce the body’s ability to convert folate into its active form, leading to elevated homocysteine, impaired detoxification, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease, depression, and neural tube defects.
Optimal / normal range
Heterozygous or Homozygous variant (requires clinical review)
Androgen Receptor Sensitivity (CAG Repeat)TRT Response▾
What it measures
A genetic test measuring the number of CAG trinucleotide repeats in the androgen receptor gene.
Why it matters
Fewer CAG repeats means more sensitive androgen receptor and stronger response to testosterone. More repeats means less receptor sensitivity. This explains why two patients with identical testosterone levels can have dramatically different symptom profiles and TRT responses.
Optimal / normal range
10-35 repeats (fewer = more sensitive)
Lab panels ordered through Tactus Health are clinician-ordered and clinically reviewed by licensed advanced practice providers. Results are for informational purposes and do not constitute a diagnosis or treatment plan. If your results are abnormal, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. Lab orders are processed on business days only. Telehealth consultations are available in eligible states; confirm at your consultation. HSA/FSA eligibility administered through your plan administrator. Genetic tests are for informational purposes only and do not constitute genetic counseling. Questions: [email protected] | (678) 892-9230 | Tactus Health Aesthetics & Weight Loss Clinic | 1400 Buford Hwy NE Suite K 2, Sugar Hill, GA 30518. Page URL: https://tactushealth.com/telehealth/labs/biomarkers/