Testosterone, Total, Serum or Plasma, Mass Concentration, Immunoassay
This test measures the total amount of testosterone in your blood, including both free testosterone and testosterone that is bound to proteins. It is commonly used to evaluate hormone balance, sexual development, and reproductive health.
["A total testosterone test measures the overall level of the main male sex hormone, which is also present in smaller amounts in females, to help assess hormone-related symptoms and conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17691-7
- Short code
- Testost 30M p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Testost 30M p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 80
- Ref high
- 200
- Critical range
- 20 N/A – 400 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84436
- SNOMED
- 302346007
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone produced mainly by the testes in men and by the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. It plays key roles in male sexual development, muscle and bone strength, mood, and energy. In women, testosterone also contributes to normal reproductive and metabolic function.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order a total testosterone test if you have symptoms such as low sex drive, fatigue, mood changes, infertility, or delayed or early puberty. In women, it may be checked for excess hair growth, acne, or irregular periods. It can also be used to monitor hormone therapy or investigate certain tumors.
How the Test Is Done
The test requires a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. Because testosterone levels change throughout the day, your provider may ask you to have the blood drawn in the morning, when levels are typically highest. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory using an immunoassay method.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared with reference ranges that vary by age, sex, and time of day. A low level may suggest hormone deficiency, while a high level may indicate excess production or use of testosterone supplements. Your provider will interpret the result along with your symptoms and other tests; a single result is not a diagnosis.
Reference range
Adult: 80-200 ng/dLN/A
Take your thyroid medication after the blood draw if applicable. No fasting required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Total Testosterone
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between total and free testosterone?
Do I need to fast before a testosterone test?
Can medications affect my testosterone results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy