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Date Posted: 09:06:44 07/27/06 Thu
Author: rational head
Author Host/IP: pool-68-161-35-71.ny325.east.verizon.net / 68.161.35.71
Subject: Re: does it give a time frame?
In reply to: sundaymorning 's message, "does it give a time frame?" on 08:49:13 07/27/06 Thu

T/E is a screening, non-specific test. It is generally accurate but at best is a "shotgun" approach. A normal balance of testosterone to epitestosterone expressed as a ratio (T/E) is roughly 1:1, slightly higher for males and lower for females. Pathological disorders often increase the ratio to 3:1. Substances such as alcohol and birth control pills affect the T/E ratio. If a positive test is revealed, then the athlete must really be "juiced" on testosterone or a new derivative. When there are no tests for specific forms of steroids it is possible to pass the T/E test but still be cheating. Alternatively, it is possible to test positive for an anabolic steroid but pass the T/E ratio test. There are problems with this test. For example, British athlete Diane Mohdahl had a 4-year competition ban lifted after demonstrating that a high T/E ratio detected in her urine sample could have been caused by bacterial contamination.

Scientists have been working to develop more reliable tests. One approach involves the use of an isotope ratio mass spectrometer, which can detect differences in the ratio of carbon isotopes in different compounds. This technology can distinguish between testosterone produced naturally by the body and synthetic compounds.

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Replies:

  • Not that I can see in the above. I cannot find the whle paper. -- Steve in ATL, 09:07:34 07/27/06 Thu
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