Abstract

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/hCG beta 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.