Testosterone Level Test
A testosterone test determines testosterone levels in the blood. Testosterone is the primary gender hormone in males. However, it is present in both genders. Regardless of gender, low or excessive testosterone levels can cause health concerns.
Types of testosterone tests
There are different types of testosterone tests include :
- Normal Testosterone Levels:Testosterone levels within a specific range are necessary for the proper functioning of the body.
- Health Issues Caused by Imbalance: Whether it's too low or too high, imbalanced testosterone levels can result in various health problems, regardless of gender.
- Symptoms that Trigger Testing: If someone shows symptoms that indicate abnormal testosterone levels, a doctor may order a testosterone test to investigate further.
- Roles in Males:During male puberty, testosterone plays a vital role in promoting hair and muscle growth, as well as contributing to voice changes. In adults, it helps regulate sex drive, maintain muscle mass, and support sperm production.
- Roles in Females: Testosterone is essential for bone and muscle growth, as well as overall organ health in females.
- Other names: total testosterone, bioavailable testosterone, serum testosterone, free testosterone.
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Get A Second OpinionWhat are testosterone levels tested for?
A testosterone level test, in combination with another test, may be used to:
- Identify the cause of symptoms that could be caused by either too high or too low testosterone levels.
- To identify the cause of the issue in children and adolescents:
- Early puberty
- Delayed puberty
- Testosterone testing can also be used to keep track of your health if you:
- Have previously had an abnormal testosterone test
- Have already had an abnormal testosterone test
- Take testosterone as part of the masculinizing hormone therapy, transgender person (also called gender-affirming hormone therapy)
Uses of CD4 Count in Health Conditions
CD4 count is also used to:
- Track your ongoing medical treatment after an organ transplant: You will need to take medication if you've undergone an organ transplant to stop your immune system from fighting the new organ. Immunosuppressants or "anti-rejection" pharmaceuticals are the names given to these medications. These drugs may potentially be used to treat certain autoimmune illnesses. Low CD4 counts indicate that the treatment is effective.
- Aid in the diagnosis of various lymphoma forms: The sort of immune cells producing lymphoma can be identified using a CD4 count together with additional tests. The test findings aid in selecting the best course of action.
- Aid in identifying DiGeorge syndrome: This is a rare hereditary illness that frequently results in immunological issues and other disorders that manifest at birth.
What Can Testosterone Tests Detect?
In Adults:
- Low Testosterone in Males Can lead to issues such as infertility, loss of muscle mass, erectile dysfunction, and a reduction in facial or body hair.
- High Testosterone in Females May cause acne, excessive hair growth in unusual areas, a deepened voice, or irregular menstrual cycles.
In Children:
- Testosterone blood tests for children can help diagnose issues like early or delayed puberty. These are especially important for testosterone blood tests for children to assess their developmental health.
Why do I need a testosterone level test?
If people show abnormal testosterone levels this test is needed:
The test is mostly used in men who have completed puberty to look for signs of low T levels (testosterone levels that are too low). With age, testosterone levels often decrease. Low T, however, can also be caused by other medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders, chronic sickness, or testicular problems. Common symptoms could appear as follows:
- Infertility
- Lack of face or body hair
- Loss of muscle mass
- Erectile dysfunction
- Enlarged breasts
- Thinning bones or anaemia
The test is used on females who exhibit signs of elevated T levels, such as:
- Acne
- Hair growth on the face or body that is abnormal
- A voice that gets lower
- Infertility (difficulty getting pregnant)
- Hair loss on the head that may be like male-pattern baldness (hair loss at the temples and balding on the top of the head)
- Irregular or no menstrual periods
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Book an AppointmentTestosterone Level Test Details
The best time to collect blood for a testosterone test is between 7 and 10 in the morning, and the testosterone levels are usually at their maximum at this time.
A medical professional will use a small needle to draw blood from a vein in the arm. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected in a test tube or vial. The needle may sting somewhat when it enters or exits the body, and usually, this only takes a few minutes.
How do I get ready for the test?
In some cases, individuals may be required to fast (not eat or drink) for many hours before the test. Inquire with the provider about how to prepare for a free testosterone level test.
Are there any risks to the test?
A blood test poses minimal risk. The most common side effects include:
- Mild pain at the needle insertion site.
- Slight dizziness or discomfort during the procedure.
- These side effects usually resolve quickly.
What do the results mean?
The test results may indicate a range of things based on the test, the age, the symptoms, the results of additional tests, and any other conditions one may have. As a result, it is best to ask the provider to discuss the test results.
A testosterone level test cannot detect any health concerns on its own, but abnormal results combined with testosterone symptoms may indicate a problem.
In males, low T levels may be caused by:
- A pituitary gland disorder
- Injury to the testicles
- Alcohol use disorder
- Chronic (long-lasting) diseases such as liver disease or kidney disease
- Benign tumors (not cancer)
- Certain genetic diseases
In females, low T levels are normal, but severely low levels may indicate
- A pituitary gland disorder
- An adrenal gland disorder
- An ovarian disorder
In males, high T levels may be caused by:
- Steroid use
- A tumour in the testicles
- An adrenal gland disorder
In females, high T levels may be caused by:
- Ovarian cancer
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- A disorder of the pituitary gland
- An adrenal gland disorder
