What Is A Total Testosterone Test?
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone which is also present in women in small quantities. It plays a crucial role in developing male sex characteristics, maintaining muscle mass, bone density and red blood cell production and regulating sex drive (libido) in both men and women. Total testosterone test is a blood test that measures the overall amount of testosterone in the blood stream. The test is often used to diagnose conditions related to testosterone levels such as hypogonadism (low testosterone levels) in men, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women or general hormonal imbalances. It may also be used to monitor testosterone replacement therapy or evaluate symptoms like low libido, fatigue, infertility etc. for men it is commonly recommended if there are signs of low levels while for women it is often used to assess conditions like hirsutism (excessive hair growth) or menstrual irregularities.
How is the Test Performed?
Sample Collection
Total Testosterone Test requires a blood sample from the patient.
Lab Analysis
The sample is then processed in a laboratory using immunoassay or liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) techniques to measure testosterone levels accurately. Fasting is not typically required for this test, but doctors may advise testing in the morning when testosterone levels are at their peak.
Turnaround Time
Results are normally available in 24 hours.
What are the symptoms that prompt this test?
Total Testosterone Test is warranted when a person experiences symptoms of thyroid dysfunction.
Men
- Low libido or erectile dysfunction
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Loss of muscle mass
- Increased body fat
- Depression or mood changes
- Reduced body hair growth
- Infertility
- Osteoporosis or decreased bone density in elderly adults
Women
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Excess facial or body hair growth (hirsutism)
- Thinning scalp hair
- Acne or oily skin
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Infertility
Children
- Delayed puberty (boys and girls)
- Early puberty (precocious puberty)
What are Normal Ranges for This Test?
General reference values are:
- Men – 300 – 1,000 ng/dL
- Women – 15 – 70 ng/dL
** Normal levels are dependent on a number of factors including age, gender, testing method and health condition of patient etc. Result interpretation should be done by a qualified doctor or healthcare professional.**
What Happens if Test Results Show Abnormal Levels?
If total testosterone levels are abnormal your doctor may recommend further testing to determine the underlying cause. This may include:
- A free testosterone test to measure the amount of unbound testosterone.
- Additional hormone tests (LH, FSH, or estradiol) to evaluate pituitary or gonadal function.
- Imaging tests like MRI or ultrasound to examine the pituitary gland, testes or ovaries.
- Lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, exercise or stress management, to improve hormone levels.
- Testosterone replacement therapy (for men with low levels) or medications to address h-hormonal imbalances.
- Low levels in women is not considered a problem if there are no other issues. However your doctor may address low
- levels with hormonal replacement. High testosterone levels in women is considered a problem as it can lead to
- several disorders for which doctors will advise a personalized plan based on the underlying issue.
Your doctor will create a personalized treatment plan based on your results, symptoms and overall health.
