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Testosterone Total

Also known as Serum Testosterone, Bioavailable Testosterone

₹369~~₹643~~ 42% Off

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

No special preparation is required.

Understanding Testosterone Total

What is Testosterone Total?

The Testosterone Total test measures the concentration of testosterone, a male sex hormone, in the blood. Testosterone is present in both men and women, but the levels are significantly higher in men, influencing various aspects such as sexual development, muscle and bone health, mood, and energy.

Hormones are the body's chemical messengers, regulating various physiological processes, including growth, metabolism, mood, and sexual development. Testosterone, a primary male sex hormone, is responsible for a range of essential functions, and its levels can significantly impact an individual's health and well-being. The Testosterone Total test is a vital component of hormonal health assessment and is crucial in understanding the hormonal balance within the human body, particularly in males.

Testosterone is produced primarily by the testes in males and ovaries in females. It drives the development of secondary sexual characteristics, such as facial hair and deepening of the voice. Testosterone 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 testosterone is chiefly a male sex hormone, it is also produced in women in small amounts and affects the overall growth and development of muscles and reproductive tissues.

Deranged testosterone levels can cause changes in health and physical appearance. The Testosterone Total 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 Total test detects conditions such as menstrual irregularities and hormonal issues like increased facial hair.

Usually, no special preparation is required for the Testosterone Total 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 Total used for?

The Testosterone Total 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 Total measure?

The Testosterone Total test measures the level of testosterone hormone in the blood. Testosterone is a steroid hormone primarily produced in the testes in men, although it is also present in smaller quantities in the adrenal glands. In women, it is made in small amounts by the ovaries. It is predominantly associated with male physiology and significantly influences physiological functions in both men and women.

The pituitary gland produces luteinizing hormone (LH), which regulates testosterone production. As testosterone levels rise, LH production decreases, slowing down testosterone production. Conversely, when testosterone levels fall, LH production increases, stimulating testosterone production.

Most of the testosterone circulating in the blood gets attached to two proteins, albumin and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and some of it remains unattached, called free testosterone. Free testosterone and albumin-bound testosterone are also known as bioavailable testosterone, as they are readily available for the body to use for proper functioning.

Interpreting Testosterone Total results

Interpretations

In adult men:

19 - 49 years: 249-836 ng/dL
50 years and older: 193-740 ng/dL

In adult women:

19 - 49 years: 8-48 ng/dL
50 years and older: 2-41 ng/dL

The reference range may vary from lab to lab

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Testosterone Total

Frequently Asked Questions about Testosterone Total

Q. Why do I need the Testosterone Total test?

The Testosterone Total test is used to measure the total amount of testosterone hormone in the blood. It is used to detect conditions such as infertility, erectile dysfunction, and early or delayed puberty in males and menstrual irregularities or hormonal issues, like increased facial hair, in females.

Q. What are the signs of low testosterone levels in men?

The signs of low testosterone levels in men include decreased muscle mass, lack of body and facial hair, very small testicles, and development of breast tissue.

Q. Will taking supplements help to raise testosterone levels?

Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements. Testosterone supplements may help raise its levels but the results may vary amongst individuals. Your doctor will determine if taking a supplement is the right therapy for you.

Q. Why do women need the Testosterone Total test?

Women also produce testosterone but in small amounts. It is needed to maintain hormonal balance and normal bodily functions. If a woman’s body is producing too much testosterone, she may have abnormal facial or body hair growth, abnormal or no menstrual periods, or may even be infertile. The Testosterone Total test and other tests can help the doctor understand the symptoms and treat the condition effectively.

Q. What additional tests can be advised along with the Testosterone Total test?

The additional tests that can be advised along with the Testosterone Total test include prolactin test, anti-mullerian hormone test, estrogen test, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate test, follicle-stimulating hormone test, and luteinizing hormone test. The doctor will advise any additional tests that may be needed depending on an individual’s needs.

Q. How is a Testosterone Free test different from the Testosterone Total test?

Testosterone is present in the blood in two forms: free and bound (to proteins albumin and sex hormone-binding globulin). The Testosterone Free test measures the amount of testosterone that is not bound to any protein, whereas the Testosterone Total test measures the amount of total (both bound and free) testosterone in the body. Both free and albumin-bound testosterone are easily available for the body to use for proper functioning.

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