Determining Paediatric Usual Values for Hormones Dosages by LC-MS/MS

Liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is now the method of choice for steroid hormone analysis, as it enables analyses to be carried out on small-volume samples on a wider range of hormones, with improved specificity compared with immunoassays. Hormone assays currently face a twofold problem: on the one hand, immunoassays are highly dependent on the synthesis of antibody kits manufactured by companies with immunotechnology expertise; on the other hand, these immunoassays may require the use of radioactive products for quantification, generating considerable risks for both staff and environment. There are international recommendations from expert societies (World Anti-Doping Agency, Endocrine society) to develop new, more reliable assay methods, such as LC-MS/MS, and to phase out immuno- and radioassay techniques. However, changing measurement methods requires the development of reference values to maintain and optimize the management of patients. The aim of this project is therefore to establish usual values in a paediatric population, through collaboration between the clinical departments of the APHP and the METOMICS laboratory, which has mastered the technology.