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Androstserplmcnc

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 10, 2026

A test that measures the level of androstenedione, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and ovaries/testes, in your blood.

Quick summary

{"Androstenedione is a precursor hormone that converts to testosterone and estrogen","This test helps diagnose conditions causing excess or deficient hormone production","It is commonly used to evaluate early puberty, infertility, and hormonal imbalances","Blood sample is typically drawn in the morning","Certain medications and timing may affect test results"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 10, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1854-9
Short code
ANDRO
Synonyms
Androst SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top serum tube or serum separator tube (SST); plasma acceptable in heparin or EDTA tubes
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.3
Ref high
3.9
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
1–99 years
Method
Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) or Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA)
CPT
82157
SNOMED
412786000
Specimen volume
1.0-2.0 mL of serum or plasma; minimum 0.5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 6 months. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
100
Icterus max
25
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The androstenedione test measures the amount of androstenedione in your blood. Androstenedione is a steroid hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands in both men and women, with smaller amounts produced by the ovaries in women and testes in men. It serves as a precursor (building block) that the body converts into testosterone (male hormone) and estrogen (female hormone).

Why is this test performed?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to: evaluate symptoms of excess male hormones (such as excessive hair growth, acne, or irregular periods in women); investigate early or delayed puberty in children; assess adrenal gland function; help diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or adrenal tumors; and evaluate infertility issues in both men and women.

How is the test done?

A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The procedure is quick and typically takes less than a few minutes. You may be asked to have the test done in the morning, as hormone levels can vary throughout the day. Your healthcare provider may also ask you to fast or avoid certain medications before the test.

Are there any risks?

The risks are minimal and similar to any standard blood draw. You may experience slight bruising, bleeding, or dizziness at the puncture site. These side effects usually resolve quickly.

Reference range

Adult Male: 0.6-3.1 ng/mL; Adult Female: 0.3-3.5 ng/mL (follicular), 0.6-3.9 ng/mL (luteal), 0.3-1.9 ng/mL (postmenopausal); Pediatric ranges vary by Tanner stage and sexN/A

Specimen: serum

No fasting required. For females, document phase of menstrual cycle. Sample collection preferably in morning (7-10 AM) due to diurnal variation. Avoid exercise prior to collection. Stress and certain medications may affect results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to prepare for the test?
You may need to fast for 8-12 hours before the test. Your healthcare provider may ask you to stop certain medications that could affect hormone levels. Inform your provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking.
When will I get my results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you and explain what they mean for your health.
Can this test diagnose PCOS?
Androstenedione is one of several tests used to help evaluate for PCOS, but it cannot diagnose the condition alone. Your provider will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results (such as other hormone levels and imaging studies) to make a diagnosis.
Do men need this test?
Yes, men may have androstenedione tested to evaluate adrenal function, infertility issues, or if a hormonal disorder is suspected. While testosterone is the primary male hormone, androstenedione plays a role in overall hormone balance.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - AndrostenedioneSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - AndrostenedioneSource
  3. 3
    ARUP Consult - AndrostenedioneSource

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 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy