Testosterone, Total, Males (Adult) Only Most Popular

The Testosterone, Total, Males (Adult) Only test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker.

Brief Description: The Testosterone Total Male test is a laboratory test that measures the total testosterone levels in the blood. Testosterone is a male sex hormone primarily produced in the testes and is responsible for the development of male sexual characteristics, reproductive function, muscle mass, bone density, and overall well-being.

Please note: If Testosterone, Total, Males (Adult) Only #873 is ordered for a pediatric or female patient, the lab will automatically change the test to and charge for Testosterone, Total, MS #15983.

Also Known As: Total Testosterone Test, Testosterone Total Test, Male Testosterone Test, Testosterone Male Test, Testosterone Test

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: No preparation required

Due to changes in testosterone levels throughout the day, two morning (8:00-10:00 a.m.) specimens obtained on different days are recommended by The Endocrine Society for screening.

This test can report a value up to 3000 ng/dL. any number >3000 will be stated as >3000.

When is a Testosterone Total Male test ordered?

A Testosterone Total Male test may be ordered in several situations:

1. Evaluation of Hormonal Imbalances: It is commonly ordered to assess testosterone levels and investigate hormonal imbalances in males. Symptoms such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, mood changes, muscle weakness, or infertility may prompt healthcare providers to evaluate testosterone levels.

2. Diagnosis of Hypogonadism: Hypogonadism refers to a condition where the body produces insufficient amounts of testosterone. The Testosterone Total Male test helps diagnose hypogonadism and determine the appropriate treatment options.

3. Monitoring Testosterone Replacement Therapy: For males receiving testosterone replacement therapy, regular monitoring of testosterone levels is necessary to ensure optimal dosing and therapeutic response.

What does a Testosterone Total Male blood test check for?

In men, testosterone is the primary sex hormone. It's in charge of a man's physical appearance. This test determines the amount of testosterone in a person's blood.

Testosterone is primarily produced in the male testicles by unique endocrine tissue called Leydig cells. It's made by the adrenal glands in males.

In males, testosterone promotes the formation of secondary sex characteristics such as penis size, body hair growth, muscle development, and a deeper voice. It is abundant in males during adolescence and adulthood in order to regulate sex drive and preserve muscle mass.

The pituitary gland produces luteinizing hormone, which stimulates and regulates testosterone synthesis. Testosterone functions in a negative feedback loop: when testosterone levels rise, LH production falls, slowing testosterone production; lower testosterone levels cause higher LH production, which promotes testosterone production.

Testosterone levels fluctuate throughout the day, increasing in the early morning hours and dropping in the evening. Levels rise after activity and fall as people get older.

About two-thirds of testosterone is attached to sex-hormone binding globulin in the bloodstream, with the remaining one-third bound to albumin. Only a small percentage of testosterone is released into the bloodstream as free testosterone. The bioavailable fraction is the free plus albumin-bound testosterone, which can act on target tissues.

In many circumstances, measuring total testosterone is sufficient information for a healthcare provider. A test for free or bioavailable testosterone may be performed in some circumstances, such as when the level of SHBG is abnormal, as it may more accurately indicate the presence of a medical issue.

Lab tests often ordered with a Testosterone Total Male test:

When a Male Testosterone Total test is ordered, it is typically part of an evaluation to assess testosterone levels, which play a crucial role in male health. Testosterone impacts various aspects including sexual function, muscle mass, bone density, and mood. To gain a comprehensive understanding of a patient's hormonal health, several other tests are often ordered alongside the Male Testosterone Total test:

1. Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH):

   • Purpose: LH and FSH are hormones produced by the pituitary gland, crucial for regulating the function of the testes.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To help differentiate between primary (testicular) and secondary (pituitary or hypothalamic) hypogonadism. Abnormal levels can indicate issues with the pituitary gland or testes affecting testosterone production.

2. Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG):

   • Purpose: SHBG binds to testosterone, affecting its availability to body tissues.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Measuring SHBG helps in understanding the amount of free or bioavailable testosterone, which can be more indicative of androgenic activity than total testosterone levels alone.

3. Estradiol:

   • Purpose: To measure the level of estradiol, a form of estrogen that men also produce.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Elevated levels of estradiol in men can lead to symptoms like gynecomastia and erectile dysfunction and may indicate an imbalance in testosterone metabolism.

4. Prolactin:

   • Purpose: To measure the level of prolactin, a hormone that can affect the body’s hormonal balance.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Elevated prolactin levels can suppress the production of testosterone and indicate pituitary disorders like prolactinoma.

5. Complete Blood Count (CBC):

   • Purpose: To provide a general overview of health and detect conditions such as anemia.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Testosterone levels can affect red blood cell production, and abnormalities in the CBC can provide insights into overall health and hormonal effects.

6. Liver Function Tests:

   • Purpose: To assess liver health, as the liver plays a role in hormone metabolism.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Liver diseases can impact the metabolism and levels of testosterone and SHBG.

7. Kidney Function Tests:

   • Purpose: To evaluate kidney function.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Kidney disease can affect overall health, including hormonal balances.

8. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT):

   • Purpose: DHT is a potent androgen derived from testosterone.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To assess how the body is metabolizing testosterone, particularly in conditions like prostate enlargement or male pattern baldness.

9. Thyroid Function Tests (TSH, Free T3, and Free T4):

   • Purpose: To assess thyroid function.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Thyroid disorders can influence testosterone levels and overall metabolic health.

These tests, when ordered alongside a Male Testosterone Total test, provide a comprehensive evaluation of a man’s hormonal status. They help in diagnosing conditions related to hormonal imbalances, sexual health, reproductive function, and general metabolic health. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and clinical context.

Conditions where a Testosterone Total Male test is recommended:

A Testosterone Total Male test is useful in the evaluation and management of various conditions, including:

1. Hypogonadism: Hypogonadism is a condition characterized by low testosterone levels, resulting in symptoms such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, mood changes, muscle weakness, and infertility. The test helps diagnose hypogonadism and guide treatment decisions.

2. Andropause: Also known as age-related testosterone deficiency, andropause refers to a decline in testosterone levels that occurs with aging in some males. Assessing testosterone levels helps evaluate the need for hormone replacement therapy and monitor treatment response.

3. Monitoring Hormonal Therapy: In certain situations, such as transgender hormone therapy or anabolic steroid use, monitoring testosterone levels is important to ensure appropriate dosing and safety.

How is this test used by my health care provider?

Healthcare providers use the results of a Testosterone Total Male test to:

1. Diagnose Hormonal Imbalances: Abnormal testosterone levels, in conjunction with clinical symptoms and other diagnostic findings, aid in the diagnosis of conditions such as hypogonadism or andropause.

2. Guide Treatment Decisions: Testosterone levels help healthcare providers determine the need for testosterone replacement therapy or other appropriate interventions to address hormonal imbalances.

3. Monitor Therapy: Regular monitoring of testosterone levels is important for individuals undergoing testosterone replacement therapy to ensure therapeutic response, optimize dosing, and minimize potential side effects.

It is important to note that the interpretation of Testosterone Total Male test results should be done by a qualified healthcare provider, considering the patient's medical history, symptoms, and other relevant factors. Treatment decisions are individualized based on the specific clinical context, and the test results are used as one part of the comprehensive assessment.

What does my testosterone test result mean?

Testosterone levels often begin to fall after the age of 30. Testosterone levels may drop more in obese or chronically unwell men, as well as with the use of certain drugs.

Hypogonadism can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Pituitary or hypothalamic illness
• Reduced testosterone production in young males can be caused by genetic disorders
• Possible infertility or testicular failure
• Acquired damage to the testes, such as from drinking, physical injury, or viral infections like mumps, reduces testosterone production.
• Diabetes

Healthcare practitioners may recommend testosterone replacement therapy to men who have consistently low testosterone levels and associated signs and symptoms. The Food and Drug Administration has not approved testosterone supplements to improve strength, sports performance, or avoid aging disorders. It's possible that using it for these purposes is dangerous.

Increased testosterone levels in men can mean one of several things:

• Tumors of the testicles
• Testosterone-producing tumors in the adrenal glands
• Use of anabolic steroids

Most Common Questions About the Adult Male Testosterone Total test:

Understanding the Test

What is the Adult Male Testosterone Total test?

The Adult Male Testosterone Total test measures the total amount of testosterone in a man's blood. Testosterone is the primary sex hormone in men and plays a key role in developing male reproductive tissues, promoting sexual characteristics, and maintaining muscle mass and bone density.

Why would someone need an Adult Male Testosterone Total test?

An Adult Male Testosterone Total test is often used when a man has symptoms of low testosterone levels, such as reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction, depression, fatigue, or when a man has signs of high testosterone levels, such as excessive body hair, acne, or an overly muscular build.

Interpreting the Results

What do the results of the Adult Male Testosterone Total test mean?

Testosterone levels are typically measured in nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). Normal ranges can vary depending on the lab, but generally, a normal range for adult males is between 270 to 1070 ng/dL, with an average level of 679 ng/dL. Levels significantly outside this range could suggest various health conditions.

How are the results of the Adult Male Testosterone Total test presented?

Results are usually provided as a numerical value in nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL), indicating the concentration of testosterone in the blood.

About the Test

What factors can affect the results of the Adult Male Testosterone Total test?

Several factors can affect the results, including age, time of day (testosterone levels typically peak in the morning), certain medications, and underlying health conditions like obesity or hypogonadism.

Understanding the Implications

What conditions can cause abnormal Adult Male Testosterone Total levels?

Abnormally low testosterone levels could indicate conditions such as hypogonadism, obesity, type 2 diabetes, or hormonal imbalances. Abnormally high testosterone levels could suggest conditions such as testicular or adrenal tumors, or abuse of testosterone or anabolic steroids.

What are the implications of abnormal Adult Male Testosterone Total levels?

Abnormal testosterone levels may require further investigation, management, or treatment. For example, low testosterone levels may lead to treatments like testosterone replacement therapy, while high levels might require treatment for conditions like tumors or counseling for substance abuse.

Risks and Precautions

How do abnormal Adult Male Testosterone Total levels impact health?

Abnormal testosterone levels can have various health impacts depending on the underlying cause. Low levels can lead to symptoms like fatigue, depression, and reduced sex drive, while high levels can lead to aggressive behavior, mood swings, and physical changes like acne or excessive body hair.

Dealing with Abnormal Results

What steps should be taken if the Adult Male Testosterone Total test results are abnormal?

Further diagnostic tests may be needed to identify the underlying cause of abnormal testosterone levels. This could include other hormone tests, imaging studies of the adrenal or testicular glands, or a biopsy. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause but could include medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery.

Interpreting the Test Results

What is the significance of elevated Adult Male Testosterone Total levels in the blood?

Elevated testosterone levels could indicate a testicular or adrenal tumor, or the use of testosterone or anabolic steroids. High levels can also cause physical and behavioral changes and may increase the risk of certain health problems.

Understanding the Importance of the Test

How does the Adult Male Testosterone Total test assist in diagnosing disease?

The Adult Male Testosterone Total test can assist in diagnosing diseases by helping identify abnormal levels of testosterone. By measuring these hormones, doctors can get clues about possible hormonal imbalances or other health conditions.

Discussion with Healthcare Provider

What do I discuss with my healthcare provider after receiving the Adult Male Testosterone Total test results?

You might discuss the meaning of your results, potential causes of abnormal levels, any recommended treatments or follow-up tests, and steps you can take to manage your health.

Relationship with Other Tests

How does the Adult Male Testosterone Total test relate to other hormone tests?

This test can be used alongside tests for other hormones such as luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), or estradiol, depending on the patient's symptoms and the suspected underlying condition.

How does the Adult Male Testosterone Total test complement other diagnostic tools?

As a hormone test, it provides unique information about hormonal balance in the body that other diagnostic tools cannot. For example, imaging tests can detect structural abnormalities but cannot measure hormone levels. As such, it complements these other tools by providing additional information for a more comprehensive diagnosis.

The Test and Specific Conditions

Can the Adult Male Testosterone Total test help diagnose hypogonadism?

Yes, this test is one of the primary methods for diagnosing hypogonadism. Hypogonadism is a condition where the body doesn't produce enough testosterone. If a man has symptoms of hypogonadism, a testosterone test can help confirm the diagnosis.

Can the Adult Male Testosterone Total test help diagnose testosterone deficiency syndrome?

Yes, this test is used to determine if a man has testosterone deficiency syndrome (also known as androgen deficiency). If testosterone levels are low, it may indicate this condition, leading to further investigation or treatment.

Future Implications

What future medical tests might be needed if the Adult Male Testosterone Total test reveals abnormal results?

Further diagnostic tests may be needed to identify the underlying cause of abnormal results. This could include other hormone tests, imaging studies of the adrenal or testicular glands, or a biopsy.

Can the Adult Male Testosterone Total test provide insights into overall health?

Yes, testosterone levels can provide insights into overall health. For example, low testosterone in men can be associated with obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

Can the Adult Male Testosterone Total test contribute to preventative healthcare?

Yes, by identifying abnormal testosterone levels, this test can help detect potential health issues before they become more serious, allowing for more effective treatment and management.

Special Populations

How does the Adult Male Testosterone Total test relate to individuals undergoing gender transition?

For individuals undergoing gender transition, this test can be used to monitor hormone levels and the effectiveness of hormone replacement therapy. It can help ensure that testosterone levels are in the desired range for the gender the individual is transitioning to.

Why might athletes require an Adult Male Testosterone Total test?

Athletes might require this test to monitor testosterone levels, as these can impact performance. In addition, testing can be done to ensure compliance with regulations regarding performance-enhancing substances, as some athletes might abuse testosterone due to its ability to increase muscle mass and strength.

Can the Adult Male Testosterone Total test be used in the management of endocrine disorders?

Yes, it can. Many endocrine disorders involve an imbalance of hormones like testosterone, so testing these levels can help in the diagnosis and management of these conditions.

Can the Adult Male Testosterone Total test be useful in assessing fertility issues in men?

Yes, low testosterone levels in men can contribute to infertility by reducing sperm production, so testing these levels can provide important information in an infertility evaluation.

Age and the Test

Does age affect the results of an Adult Male Testosterone Total test?

Yes, age does affect the results of the test. Testosterone levels naturally decrease with age, starting around age 30. This is why the range of "normal" testosterone levels can vary widely and depends on the age of the individual being tested.

What are the implications of declining testosterone levels with age as seen in the Adult Male Testosterone Total test?

Declining testosterone levels with age can lead to symptoms commonly associated with aging, such as fatigue, reduced muscle mass, decreased sex drive, and mood changes. However, if testosterone levels drop too low, it can lead to conditions like hypogonadism, which might require treatment.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.