Complete Blood Count (CBC)

What is this test? A complete blood count, or CBC, is a common blood test that measures the different cells in your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, hemoglobin, and hematocrit. It gives your healthcare team a broad picture of your overall health.

The androstenedione test measures the amount of androstenedione in your blood serum or plasma. Androstenedione is an androgen (male hormone) produced primarily by the adrenal glands in both men and women, and also by the ovaries in women and testes in men. It serves as a precursor hormone, meaning your body can convert it into other hormones like testosterone and estrogen.

Why is this test ordered? Your doctor may order a CBC as part of a routine health exam to screen for conditions such as anemia, infection, or blood disorders, to help evaluate symptoms like fatigue, weakness, fever, bruising, or unusual bleeding, and to monitor an existing condition or how a treatment is working.

Your healthcare provider may order an androstenedione test if you have symptoms suggesting a hormone imbalance. In women, this may include excess hair growth (hirsutism), acne, deepening voice, or menstrual irregularities. In men or children, it may be ordered for signs of early puberty or unusual muscle development. The test is also used to evaluate adrenal gland function and to help diagnose conditions like congenital adrenal hyperplasia, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or adrenal tumors.

How is the test performed? A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm, usually on the inside of the elbow, using a fine needle. The procedure takes only a few minutes, and you may feel a brief sting or pinch. No special preparation is usually required, and the sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood is collected into a tube and sent to a laboratory for analysis. You do not need to fast before this test, but your doctor may ask you to stop certain medications that could affect the results. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking.

Understanding your results: Your report will show a measured value for each blood component next to a reference range, which is the range considered typical for healthy adults. Values that fall above or below these ranges may suggest conditions such as infection, anemia, dehydration, or clotting problems, but a single abnormal value does not confirm a diagnosis. Always review your results with your healthcare provider, who can interpret them alongside your symptoms, medical history, and other findings.

Normal androstenedione levels vary based on age, sex, and the laboratory that performs the test. Your results will be compared to a reference range specific to your age, sex, and sometimes menstrual cycle phase (for women). Elevated levels may indicate conditions such as PCOS, adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal tumors, or androgen-producing tumors. Low levels may be seen in adrenal insufficiency or certain genetic conditions. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results in the context of your symptoms and other test findings.