Free Testosterone Blood Test
Test Code: 144980
Specimen Type: Blood
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Description:
Free Testosterone Blood Test
This test measures free or unbound testosterone in the blood. Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. However, it is present in both men and women. In men, testosterone is produced primarily in the testicles. Small amounts of testosterone are produced by the ovaries in women and the adrenal glands in both sexes. Testosterone stimulates the development of secondary sex characteristics during puberty in men. In adult men, testosterone regulates sex drive and helps maintain muscle mass. The majority of testosterone is bound to the proteins Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin and Albumin. The portion of testosterone which is not bound is known as Free Testosterone. Free Testosterone is available for the body to use.
Measuring testosterone can help to diagnose the cause for a number of conditions in men such as delayed or early puberty, erectile dysfunction, and testicular tumors. It can also help evaluate conditions which affect both men and women such as decreased sex drive, infertility and pituitary disorders.
The Free Testosterone test is often ordered as a follow up to a Total Testosterone test when testosterone levels are low. This test may also be ordered when a person's Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) levels are abnormal or they are known to have a condition such as obesity, kidney disease or a thyroid disorder which affects SHBG levels. In some cases, Total Testosterone and Free Testosterone are ordered together to get a more comprehensive evaluation of testosterone levels.
Please note that this test has no established reference interval for people age 0-19. Results for people in this age group will not include a range of which values are considered normal.
The typical turnaround time for this test is 3-5 business days.
Where can I find a Testosterone Free (Direct) Test near me?
Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.
Note: Result turn around times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
Requirements:
This hormone test has no fasting requirements.
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