Immunoassays may be qualitative (positive or negative) or quantitative (amount measured). An example of a qualitative assay is an immunoassay test for pregnancy. Pregnancy tests detect the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in urine or serum. Highly purified antibodies can detect pregnancy within two days of fertilization.
Glucocorticoid: A hormone that predominantly affects the metabolism of carbohydrates and, to a lesser extent, fats and proteins (and has other effects). Glucocorticoids are made in the outside portion (the cortex) of the adrenal gland and chemically classed as steroids. Cortisol is the major natural glucocorticoid. The term glucocorticoid also applies to equivalent hormones synthesized in the laboratory.
A glucocorticoid is a hormone that affects the metabolism of fats and proteins, but especially carbohydrates. Glucocorticoids are produced in the cortex of the adrenal gland and is classified as a steroid. While glucocorticoids are naturally produced, they can also be synthesized in laboratories by scientists. Cortisol is an example of a glucocorticoid. When people do not produce the right amount of this hormone they are subject to metabolism problems.