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Testosterone, Total

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

This biomarker measures the total amount of testosterone, a hormone responsible for the development of male sexual characteristics and reproductive function.

Quick summary

Total testosterone is a key hormone for male reproductive health.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
ng/dL
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Roche Testosterone, Abbott Testosterone, Siemens Testosterone
interpretation: {"text":"Levels below 300 ng/dL in men may indicate hypogonadism or other conditions affecting testosterone production.","label":"Low"}; {"text":"Levels above 1000 ng/dL in men may suggest testosterone overproduction, which can be caused by tumors or other conditions.","label":"High"}

Testosterone is a steroid hormone primarily produced in the testes in men and in the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. It plays a crucial role in the development of male sexual characteristics, such as muscle mass, body hair, and the deepening of the voice.

In men, total testosterone levels are used to diagnose conditions such as hypogonadism, infertility, and erectile dysfunction. In women, abnormal levels can indicate polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other hormonal imbalances.

The reference range for total testosterone is typically 300–1000 ng/dL in adult males and 15–70 ng/dL in adult females. Levels outside this range may require further medical evaluation.

Frequently asked questions

What are the symptoms of low testosterone?
Symptoms of low testosterone can include decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and loss of muscle mass.
How is testosterone testing done?
Testosterone testing is typically done through a blood test, often in the morning when levels are highest.
  1. 1
    Mayo Clinic: Testosterone, Total, SerumSource
  2. 2
    MedlinePlus: Testosterone Levels TestSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy