TESTOSTERONE-TOTAL

The Testosterone-Total test measures how much testosterone there is in your blood. It’s a hormone made by the ovaries (in women) and testes (in men) that helps control male reproductive organs development, strengthens bones and builds muscles. In women, it controls periods so that they occur regularly and maintains bone mass. This test helps diagnose hypogonadism (low testosterone levels in males) and hyperandrogenism (high testosterone levels in females). 

It measures the total amount of testosterone in the blood which includes free and bound testosterone. Free testosterone is the active form of the hormone whereas bound testosterone is attached to proteins in the blood. Total testosterone measurement gives a general view of testosterone levels within a person’s body. 

The test is usually taken under these conditions: 

1. Evaluation of low testosterone levels in males (hypogonadism) 

2. Evaluation of high testosterone levels in females (hyperandrogenism) 

3. Diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) 

4. Monitoring of testosterone replacement therapy 

5. Investigation of infertility in both males and females. 

Some risks associated with this test include: 

1. Pain, swelling, or redness at the site where blood is drawn 

2. Hematoma – a pool or collection of blood under the skin 

Limitations on the test include: 

1. Certain medical conditions like hyperthyroidism can give false results. Also, certain medications like anticonvulsants can give false results. 

2. It cannot differentiate between free and bound testosterone leading to wrong interpretation of testosterone level. 

The following parameters are evaluated: 

1. Total testosterone level (ng/dL or nmol/L) 

Medical practitioners look for the following: 

2. Low testosterone levels (less than 300 ng/dL) in males, which may indicate hypogonadism 

3. High testosterone levels (more than 80 ng/dL) in females, which may indicate hyperandrogenism

People should do this test if they have any of the following: 

1. Symptoms of low testosterone in males like decreased libido, fatigue, and erectile dysfunction. 

2. Acne, excessive hair growth or male pattern baldness as symptoms of high testosterone in women. 

There are many things that can be done through taking the test such as: 

1. Diagnosing and treating hypogonadism or hyperandrogenism. 

2. Evaluating how effective is your replacement therapy for testosterone. 

3. Exploring infertility. 

4. Monitoring and managing some medical conditions including PCOS. 

The test can diagnose or help diagnose the following conditions: 

1. Hypogonadism (low testosterone levels in males) 

2. Hyperandrogenism (high testosterone levels in females) 

3. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) 

4. Infertility in both males and females 

There is no preparation necessary, but it would be best if you do the test in the morning because that’s when your testosterone levels are usually high. 

Prerequisites: None. 

Eligibility: Both males and females can use this test, but normal testosterone reference ranges might differ between sexes. 

Procedure for Taking the Test: A needle inserted into the vein of your arm ordinarily through which blood sample is drawn using a syringe 

Caution Before the Test: Inform your healthcare provider in case you are under any medication including vitamins and supplements.