Testosterone Free
Understanding Testosterone Free
What is Testosterone Free?
The Testosterone Free test measures the amount of free (unbound to any other substance) testosterone, a male sex hormone, in the blood. This test is used to diagnose conditions such as decreased sex drive, infertility, erectile dysfunction in men, and irregular menstrual periods in women. It can also be utilized to track hormone levels in individuals receiving testosterone replacement therapy.
Testosterone is produced primarily by the testes in males and ovaries in females. It plays a vital role in developing secondary sexual characteristics, such as facial hair and deepening of the voice. It contributes to muscle development and bone density, essential for physical strength and overall well-being. It influences mood and energy levels, and an adequate amount is necessary for a healthy libido and optimal reproductive function. While it is chiefly a male sex hormone, testosterone is also produced in women in small amounts and affects the overall growth and development of muscles and reproductive tissues. Some of it is converted to estrogen, the primary female sex hormone.
Deranged testosterone levels can cause changes in health and physical appearance. The Testosterone Free test helps assess male infertility and identify hormonal imbalances, particularly in men experiencing symptoms such as low libido, fatigue, mood disturbances, and muscle weakness. This test is also valuable for monitoring the effectiveness of hormone replacement therapy in individuals with low testosterone levels. In women, the Testosterone Free test detects conditions such as menstrual irregularities and hormonal issues like increased facial hair.
Usually, no special preparation is required for the Testosterone Free test. You may eat and drink as per your daily routine. However, it should be noted that testosterone levels are highest during the early morning and lowest in the evening, and it increases with exercise and decreases with age.
Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results will help the doctor make informed decisions regarding treatment options, ultimately enhancing the quality of life and well-being.
What is Testosterone Free used for?
The Testosterone Free test is done:
- In cases of male infertility, to provide insights into potential contributing factors and guide treatment.
- In men who experience symptoms of hormonal imbalance, such as low libido, fatigue, mood disturbances, and muscle weakness.
- In females with male traits such as excessive body hair (hirsutism) or irregular or absent periods.
- To monitor treatment response in individuals with abnormal testosterone levels or those undergoing hormone replacement therapy.
- In individuals taking medicines that may affect their testosterone levels.
What does Testosterone Free measure?
The Testosterone Free test measures the level of unattached or free testosterone in the blood. It is called free testosterone or free T because it is not attached to other molecules, especially proteins. The body actively uses free testosterone as signaling molecules that regulate metabolism and other cellular functions.
Interpreting Testosterone Free results
Interpretations
In males: 8.69 - 54.69 pg/mL
In females ( > 12 years)
Follicular phase: 0.45 - 3.17 pg/mL
Luteal phase: 0.46 - 2.48 pg/mL
Oral contraceptive: 0.55 - 2.01 pg/mL
Postmenopausal: 0.29 - 1.73 pg/mL
The reference range may vary from lab to lab*
Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Testosterone Free
Frequently Asked Questions about Testosterone Free
Q. When can the Testosterone Free test be done?
Q. Is there any risk associated with the Testosterone Free test?
Q. How often should I get the Testosterone Free test done?
Q. How is the Testosterone Free test different from the total testosterone test?
Q. In what conditions low testosterone levels can be observed?
Q. In what conditions high testosterone levels can be observed?
Q. Will taking supplements help to raise testosterone levels?
Q. What additional tests can be advised along with the Testosterone Free test?
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References
- Rivas AM, Mulkey Z, Lado-Abeal J, Yarbrough S. Diagnosing and managing low serum testosterone. Proc (Bayl Univ Med Cent). 2014 Oct;27(4):321-4. [Accessed 03 Aug. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4255853/
- Krakowsky Y, Grober ED. Testosterone Deficiency - Establishing A Biochemical Diagnosis. EJIFCC. 2015 Mar 10;26(2):105-13. [Accessed 03 Aug. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4975356/
- Shea JL, Wong PY, Chen Y. Free testosterone: clinical utility and important analytical aspects of measurement. Adv Clin Chem. 2014;63:59-84. [Accessed 03 Aug. 2023]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24783351/
- Ramasamy R, Golan R, Wilken N, Scovell JM, Lipshultz LI. Association of Free Testosterone With Hypogonadal Symptoms in Men With Near-normal Total Testosterone Levels. Urology. 2015 Aug;86(2):287-90. [Accessed 03 Aug. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4549166/
- Facondo P, Di Lodovico E, Pezzaioli LC, Cappelli C, Ferlin A, Delbarba A. Usefulness of routine assessment of free testosterone for the diagnosis of functional male hypogonadism. Aging Male. 2022 Dec;25(1):65-71. [Accessed 03 Aug. 2023]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35243960/
- Yang Q, Li Z, Li W, Lu L, Wu H, Zhuang Y, Wu K, Sui X. Association of total testosterone, free testosterone, bioavailable testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin, and hypertension. Medicine (Baltimore). 2019 May;98(20):e15628. [Accessed 03 Aug. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6531235/
- University of Rochester Medical Center. Free Testosterone [Internet].Rochester, NY: University of Rochester Medical Center; [Accessed 03 Aug. 2023]. Available from: https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=testosterone_total
- Institute of Medicine (US) Committee on Assessing the Need for Clinical Trials of Testosterone Replacement Therapy; Liverman CT, Blazer DG, editors. Testosterone and Aging: Clinical Research Directions. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2004. 2, Testosterone and Health Outcomes. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK216175/
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