Free Testosterone Test
Free Testosterone Test
A free testosterone test is used to determine the amount of unattached, or free testosterone in a blood sample. Testosterone is a sex hormone present in both males and females that is responsible for the regulation of fertility. In males, it is essential for the development of male sex characteristics such as a deeper voice, muscle development, and hair growth. Comparatively, females have small amounts of testosterone that influence the overall growth and development of muscles and reproductive tissues.
Testosterone is made by the testicles in males; it is part of the male reproductive system that produces sperm. In females, the ovaries produce small amounts of testosterone; it is a female reproductive part that makes eggs. The adrenal glands are the organs on top of each kidney that produce the hormone dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), which is converted into testosterone and estrogen.
The testosterone-free or free testosterone test is used to diagnose abnormal hormone levels related to diseases like erectile dysfunction, fertility problems, osteoporosis (weakening of bones), etc., in both children and adults
Symptoms of low testosterone levels in males
Low sex drive
Erectile dysfunction (difficulty in getting a penis erection
Enlarged breasts
Lack of facial or body hair
Weakening of bones
Anaemia
Loss of muscle mass
Symptoms of high testosterone levels in females
Increased facial and body hair
Hair loss on the head
Irregular or no menstrual periods
Voice changes
Infertility
Acne
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Who should get tested?
The testosterone-free test is recommended in the following conditions
In diagnosing the cause of symptoms that could be from abnormal testosterone levels
To find out the cause of early puberty/delayed puberty in children and teens
Checking for medications that may affect testosterone levels
Monitoring the health of transgender men receiving masculinizing hormone therapy
Test preparation
This test is done early in the morning when testosterone levels are high. Some medications might affect testosterone levels, so be sure your doctor is aware of what prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, or dietary supplements you are taking. Ask your doctor about pre-test preparations, and make sure to follow instructions carefully
Interpretation of the Test Results
The free testosterone range may vary from lab to lab. The normal reference range is given in Nanograms per decilitre.
|
Parameters |
Normal range of free-testosterone levels |
|
Free testosterone in males (adult) |
2.29-20.7 ng/dL |
|
Free testosterone in females (adult) |
0.13-1.08 ng/dL |
Deviation from normal levels indicates the following:
· In males, low levels of free testosterone may indicate chronic liver, or kidney disease, pituitary gland disorder, benign tumours, and damage to the testicles, alcohol use disorder, and certain genetic disorders like Klinefelter syndrome.
· In males, high levels of free testosterone may indicate a tumour in the testicles, steroid use, and adrenal gland disorders like congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH).
· In females, extremely low free testosterone may be a sign of an adrenal gland, a pituitary gland, or an ovarian disorder.
In females, high free testosterone levels may be caused by PCOS, ovarian cancer, and pituitary gland disorders
FAQs
How is the free testosterone test performed?
During this blood test, a healthcare professional will take a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle, which is collected in a test tube or vial. This procedure takes less than five minutes
What are the risks associated with the free testosterone test?
There are no known risks associated with this test. During a blood test, one may experience minor pain or bruising where the needle was inserted, but most symptoms will subside quickly
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the result of a free testosterone test?
Free-testosterone test result is usually available within 2–3 working days. Test results might be mailed or made available online through health portals. Your doctor might also contact you by phone or email to go over your test findings or to arrange a follow-up appointment
What might affect my free testosterone test results?
Obesity, diabetes, alcohol consumption, and herbal supplements might affect your test results. Conditions like PCOS in women can affect the test result. So, it is recommended that you consult your healthcare provider before undergoing the test
What other tests might I require along with a free testosterone test?
Based on the test results, your healthcare provider may request further tests like DHEA, Estrogen, FSH or LH, Prolactin test, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, and Androstenedione. Talk to your provider for further information
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