Testosterone,free/total, Serum

Testosterone is a male sex hormone (androgen) that helps male features develop. This test measures the level of the hormone testosterone in your blood.

Most of the testosterone in the blood attaches to 2 proteins: albumin and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Some testosterone is not attached to proteins is called free testosterone. Free testosterone and albumin-bound testosterone are also referred to as bioavailable testosterone.

An individual may need this test if one have symptoms of low testosterone.

Symptoms of low testosterone in males include large breasts, low sex drive or lack of interest in sex, trouble getting an erection, low sperm count and other fertility problems, changes in the testicles, weak bones, irritability, trouble concentrating, loss of muscle mass, hair loss, depression, fatigue and anemia.

Symptoms of low testosterone in females include fertility problem, missed or irregular menstrual periods, osteoporosis, low sex drive, changes in breast tissue and vaginal dryness

Since testosterone is the most important sex hormone in males, it is an important test while evaluating infertility in men. The testosterone test is used in males to diagnose erectile dysfunction and infertility. Testosterone is ordered in women when conditions like PCOS is suspected.

• Testosterone test is used to evaluate delayed or early puberty in boys
• To evaluate decreased sex drive and erectile dysfunction
• Conditions that lead to hirsutism in women. Hirsutism refers to excess facial and body hair on face and chest. Hirsutism is most commonly observed in women with PCOS
• To evaluate Ambiguous genitalia in infants
• Test is also used in the diagnosis of pituitary disorders
• when conditions like PCOS is suspected

Testosterone is the most important sex hormone in the men. Sex hormones is also referred to as Androgens. It is present in both males and females but is present in higher concentrations in males. In men, it is produced in the testicles and also by the adrenal glands. In females, testosterone is produced by the adrenal glands and the ovaries and most of the testosterone is converted to Estradiol. Testosterone causes the changes that occur in boys during puberty. It helps hair, muscles, penis, and testes to grow. Testosterone also causes a boy's voice to deepen. Males continue to make testosterone. In adult males, it boosts sex drive and helps the sperm mature. In females, the ovaries make small amounts of testosterone. It helps many organs and body processes in females.

Some medicines may affect your test results. These include antifungal medicines such as ketoconazole and hormone medicines. Some foods that have phytoestrogen can also affect the testosterone levels. These include some fruits and vegetables, wine, and tea. Having the test done late in the day may show that your testosterone level is lower than it really is.

Other names: Testosterone, Testosterone test, Testosterone Total, Testosterone Free, Infertility test, Androgen test