Doping control for testosterone and human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (hCG) requires special
attention as a difference must be made between the endogenous and exogenous origin
of both substances. The detection of exogenous testosterone is based on the ratio
of testosterone- to epitestosterone-glucuronide (T/E) in urine. The problems with
this ratio are discussed. For hCG analysis in urine the utilization of sandwich-type
hCG specific assays instead of hCG/hCGß competitive assays is recommended. A case
study in which an athlete self-administered testosterone and hCG before a competition
is described. The T/E ratio and hCG concentration in urine were followed during this
period of self-administration. The results demonstrate the relevance of the T/E ratio
and of the selected hCG assay. The ratio of testosterone to human Luteinizing Hormone
(T/hLH) in serum also indicated the use of hormones. Although the athlete's urine
was negative for exogenous testosterone directly after competition, he would have
been found positive for hCG.
Doping - doping control - human Chorionic Gonadotrophin - testosterone
