AsseyMethod: Elisa
Abbrevation: Free testosterone
Sector: Hormone 2
SampleType: S
S.Vol: -
Transport: at 2-8˚c, -20˚c
Storage: 1 week at 2-8˚c for longer time at -20˚
Test Name: Free testosterone
Normal Range: female: premenopause:0.3-4 Post menopause:0.1-1.1 male:4.5-42
To find out if testosterone levels are abnormal in a male or female patient. Measurement may help to explain why a man has difficulty in getting an erect penis (erectile dysfunction), the inability of your partner to get pregnant (infertility), premature or delayed puberty, or masculine physical features if you are women. In a women it is used to investigate polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). More recently it has been used to investigate the so-called Male Menopause.
If you are man and your doctor thinks that you may be infertile or if you are unable to get or maintain an erection
If you are a boy with either early or delayed sexual maturity
If you are a female but have male traits, such as a low voice or excessive body hair (hirsutism), or are infertile or have no periods or if they are irregular
A blood sample taken from a vein in your arm
None
Testosterone is a steroid hormone (androgen) made by the testes in males. The production of testosterone is stimulated and controlled by luteinising hormone (LH), which is manufactured in the pituitary gland.
In men, testosterone stimulates the enlargement of the penis, growth of body hair, muscle development, and a deepening voice. It is present in large amounts in boys during puberty and in men to regulate the sex drive and maintain muscle mass.
In women testosterone levels are about one tenth of those in men. Testosterone is produced both in small amounts from the ovary and by conversion from other weak androgens in the body.
Testosterone is also produced by the adrenal glands in both men and women.
How is the sample collected for testing?
A blood sample is taken by needle from a vein in the arm.
Because testosterone levels in the male are highest in the morning and lowest in the late afternoon and evening your doctor may ask you to have your blood taken in the early morning (about 9am).
There is no preparation e.g. fasting required for this test.
Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?
No test preparation is needed.