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Androstanolonesmnmcnc

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A forensic chemistry test that detects androstanolone (dihydrotestosterone) levels in semen to help identify male reproductive tissue.

Quick summary

{"Androstanolone (DHT) is a potent male hormone found in semen","This test is primarily used for forensic identification purposes","It helps confirm the presence of seminal fluid in forensic samples","Results are analyzed in specialized forensic or clinical laboratories","The test detects a specific androgen marker for male reproductive tissue"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1849-9
Short code
DHT-SEM
Synonyms
Androstanolone Smn-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Sterile, wide-mouth, screw-capped plastic container (semen collection container)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
male
Age range
≥ 18 years
Method
Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) or Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)
CPT
82642
SNOMED
270973006
Specimen volume
1-2 mL of ejaculate; full ejaculate preferred
Stability
Analyze within 1-2 hours of collection when possible. If delayed, refrigerate at 2-8°C for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, freeze at -20°C or below.
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
48–168 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Androstanolone test measures the amount of androstanolone, also known as dihydrotestosterone (DHT), in semen. DHT is a powerful male sex hormone (androgen) that is produced from testosterone and is present in high concentrations in seminal fluid. This test uses mass/volume measurement to detect and quantify DHT levels in semen samples.

Why is this test performed?

This test is primarily performed for forensic identification purposes. It helps confirm the presence of male semen in evidence samples collected from crime scenes, clothing, or other materials. DHT serves as a specific biochemical marker because it is produced in the male reproductive system and remains relatively stable in semen even after drying or storage.

How is the test done?

A semen sample is collected and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory uses specialized chemical methods to measure the concentration of androstanolone in the sample. Results are typically reported as mass per volume (e.g., ng/mL or similar units). Note: While this test is named for semen, the sample type in this listing is serum - please follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions regarding sample collection.

What do the results mean?

In forensic contexts, the detection of androstanolone in a sample suggests the presence of male seminal fluid. A positive result supports the identification of semen, while a negative or low result may indicate absence or degradation of the sample. Your healthcare provider or forensic specialist will interpret results in the context of the specific investigation.

Reference range

Reference ranges vary by laboratory methodology; typically reported in ng/dL or pg/mL. Androstanolone (dihydrotestosterone, DHT) in semen reflects local androgenic activity in the male reproductive tract. Consult laboratory-specific reference intervals.N/A

Specimen: serum

Abstain from ejaculation for 2-5 days prior to specimen collection. Patient should wash hands and genitals prior to collection. No fasting required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Frequently asked questions

Is this test painful?
The sample collection process is generally not painful. For semen samples, collection is typically done through masturbation into a sterile container. If serum (blood) is required, a standard blood draw will be performed, which may cause brief discomfort.
How long does it take to get results?
Turnaround time varies depending on the laboratory. Forensic tests may take several days to weeks, as they require specialized processing and quality control. Clinical tests typically return results within a few days.
Does this test diagnose diseases?
This test is primarily designed for forensic identification purposes, not for diagnosing medical conditions. It confirms the presence of male seminal fluid. For hormone-related medical concerns, your doctor may order different tests.
Can women have DHT in their bodies?
Yes, women also produce small amounts of DHT in tissues like the ovaries and adrenal glands. However, the levels in women are much lower than in men. The presence of high DHT levels in a forensic sample would typically indicate male seminal fluid.
What is the difference between androstanolone and testosterone?
Androstanolone (DHT) is created from testosterone by an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase. DHT is more potent than testosterone and binds more strongly to androgen receptors. While testosterone is the primary male hormone, DHT plays important roles in male reproductive tissue development and function.
  1. 1
    LOINC - Androstanolone [Mass/volume] in SemenSource
  2. 2
    MedlinePlus - DihydrotestosteroneSource
  3. 3
    Urology Care Foundation - Male Reproductive SystemSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy