Testosterone test: What Is It, How It Is Done?

The hormone testosterone is produced predominantly in the male body in significant amounts. However, it also exists in female bodies in smaller quantities. Healthy levels of testosterone in the blood enable effective functioning of the human body.

When certain problems in bodily function potentially caused by a testosterone imbalance occurs, a testosterone test is required. The following article describes testosterone tests, why and how they are done, and what the results indicate.

What Is a Testosterone Test?

A testosterone test indicates the level of testosterone present in an individual’s body. Testosterone usually is found in two forms in the blood:

1. Protein-attached: Testosterone attaches itself to albumin and globulin, the two proteins in the bloodstream.
2. Free: It remains free flowing in the blood.

These present the need for two different testosterone tests:

1. Total Testosterone Test: It involves measuring levels of both Protein-attached and Free Testosterone in the body.
2. Free Testosterone Test: It involves measuring levels of only Free Testosterone present in the body.

When Is a Testosterone Test Done?

A testosterone test is done if symptoms of either lower or higher levels than normal of testosterone are present in the individual.

In males, low testosterone levels present as erectile dysfunction i.e., issues in maintaining erection, lowered energy levels and sexual drive, decreased muscular mass and fertility. They can also experience loss of or reduced growth of hair, symptoms of depression, anaemia, weak bones and problems in concentration.

High levels of testosterone in males are indicated by increased aggressiveness, acne breakouts, higher blood pressure and excessive hair growth

In females, low testosterone levels are experienced as decreased sexual drive, weakened muscles and bones with lowered concentration and energy levels.

In females, higher testosterone levels involve skin problems (acne and excessive sebum secretion), deepened voice and abnormal excessive hair on their face (hirsutism) or body. They undergo irregular menstrual cycles and have problems with fertility, depressed mood and loss of hair from head (balding).

How Is a Testosterone Test Done?

Testosterone test can be done either in a pathological laboratory or with a visit at home by a phlebotomist, who specialises in collecting blood from individuals for diagnostic requirements.

The individual must consult with the specialist if fasting is required before testing. For men, blood is preferably collected in the mornings when testosterone levels in the blood are the highest. The blood collected is analysed by professionals and results are produced.

Saliva tests can be done if there is an issue drawing blood or the person has a phobia of needles. However, saliva tests are only roughly accurate, compared to blood tests, in indicating hormone levels. Eventually, a follow-up blood serum test can be recommended by the doctor.

Why Is a Testosterone Test Required?

If an individual is suffering from any of the above listed symptoms associated with testosterone imbalance, a testosterone test is conducted to determine the cause. Doctors recommend testosterone test for:

1. Genetic Disorders: Hereditary issues in hormonal imbalances may be identified through testosterone test
2. Abnormal Onset of Puberty: In children and teens, if puberty is too early or delayed, testosterone tests, among others, help identify the cause.
3. Biological Ailments or Dysfunction: If the individual has a history of abnormal testosterone levels due to biological conditions, testosterone tests are done.
4. Monitoring Treatment Effects: When individuals are undergoing hormone therapy or medications that can affect endocrine glands, testosterone tests are used to monitor their hormonal levels.

How to Interpret Testosterone Test Results?

Testosterone levels are indicated in the test report using nanograms per decilitre (ng/dL) as the unit of measurement. Normal testosterone levels in males and females are:

1. Males: For males aged 18 (eighteen) to 99 (ninety-nine), the normal testosterone levels range between 193 ng/dL to 824 ng/dL. In males, the testosterone levels can decrease with age.
2. Females: Adult females between 18 to 99 years old normally have lower testosterone levels, less than 40 ng/dL.

Testosterone levels of individuals are compared to these normal ranges to check for imbalances. These results help healthcare professionals identify any underlying diseases in individuals and determine the treatment.

Any individual with the described symptoms or concerns regarding hormonal issues from present medical conditions must consult a doctor and book a testosterone test at Dr Lal PathLabs.

Download Dr Lal Path Lab’s app to get tests done today!

FAQs

1. What is testosterone?

Testosterone is a hormone that helps develop primary and secondary sexual characteristics in large amounts in men and lesser quantities in women.

2. What are the signs of high testosterone in a man?

Men can experience increased aggression, excessive hair growth, acne and high blood pressure due to high testosterone.

3. How to check testosterone levels?

The individual should schedule a testosterone test after consulting a clinician. Blood is collected from the individual and analysed to determine testosterone levels.