What is the free testosterone serum lab test?
A free testosterone serum lab test is a blood test that measures the level of free testosterone circulating in the blood.
Why is the free testosterone serum lab test done?
A free testosterone serum lab test is done in order to:
- Diagnose andropause (low testosterone level) in men,
- Diagnose late-onset hypogonadism (diminished activity of the testes) in males,
- Diagnose decreased sex drive in men and women,
- Diagnose infertility in men and women,
- Diagnose erectile dysfunction in men,
- Diagnose tumors of testicles in men,
- Find out the cause behind early or late puberty in boys,
- Find out the cause behind excess hair growth or development of masculine features in women.
What does a free testosterone serum lab test measure?
A free testosterone serum lab test measures the amount of free or unattached hormone testosterone circulating in the blood. Testosterone is the main sex hormone in males. Testosterone causes hair growth, voice deepening, and muscle development when a boy reaches the age of puberty. In adult males, testosterone controls sex drive, maintains muscle mass, and helps in making sperm.
Are there any risks associated with this test?
There are no known risks associated with this test.
How should I prepare for this test?
No special preparation needed for this test.
What does a high testosterone level in men mean?
A high total testosterone level in men indicates an adrenal gland tumor.
What does a high testosterone level in females mean?
A high total testosterone level in females indicates poly cystic ovarian syndrome (multiple cysts in the ovaries).
Can alcohol affect my testosterone test result?
Chronic (long term) alcoholism can affect testosterone level.
A total testosterone (serum) lab test is done in order to:
- Diagnose andropause (low testosterone level) in men,
- Diagnose late-onset hypogonadism (diminished activity of the testes) in males,
- Diagnose decreased sex drive in men and women,
- Diagnose infertility in men and women,
- Diagnose erectile dysfunction in men,
- Diagnose tumors of testicles in men,
- Find out the cause behind early or late puberty in boys,
- Find out the cause behind excess hair growth or development of masculine features in women.