Laboratory parameters for transgender or gender diverse individuals using hormones: narrative review of the literature

Abstract

Introduction: The increase in clinical care for transgender or gender diverse individuals using hormones indicates the need to make adjustments to monitor the development of sexual characteristics and identify adverse effects and possible significant changes in laboratory parameters. Objective: to investigate laboratory parameters of transgender or gender diverse individuals. Methodology: Narrative review of the literature regarding laboratory data on transgender or gender diverse individuals using hormones. Articles published between 2012 and 2023 were selected in the PubMed, Science Direct and Google Scholar databases, focusing on individuals aged 8 to 55 years using hormone therapy. Results: Hematocrit approaches a mid-range value between the male and female reference value after the start of THAG in both cases (THF or THM). Creatinine, studies have shown that THM increases physiological serum values ​​as THF decreases. Changes in sex steroid concentrations, body composition and laboratory values ​​begin to occur within 3 months of starting hormone therapy and recommend that the reference range to be used should be the gender affirmation range of the individual's choosing, except for exams dependent on organs specific to the sex at birth. Conclusion: More studies are needed on specific reference intervals that consider gender identity with the use of hormone therapy and other aspects related to the health of these individuals.