Testosterone (Total) with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Measurement
This test measures the total amount of testosterone, a key male sex hormone, in your blood. Testosterone helps regulate muscle mass, bone density, and sexual function.
["Understanding your testosterone levels can help identify hormonal imbalances affecting energy, mood, or reproductive health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12921-3
- Short code
- Testost 3h p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Testost 3h 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
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like low libido, fatigue, or changes in body hair. It could also be used to diagnose conditions like hypogonadism (low testosterone) or evaluate hormone-related disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if your blood is collected early in the morning. Wear a loose shirt for easy access to your arm.
How the Test Works
A small sample of blood is taken from your arm and sent to a lab. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) separates and measures testosterone levels precisely.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to general reference ranges, but individual ranges can vary. Your provider will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
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
Low testosterone may indicate conditions like hypogonadism, while high levels could suggest tumors or other hormonal imbalances. Regular monitoring helps manage conditions like infertility or metabolic disorders.
If your levels are below expected ranges, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes (like diet/exercise) or treatments such as hormone therapy, depending on your symptoms and overall health.
Yes, certain foods (like zinc-rich foods, healthy fats, and vitamins) may support hormone production, but results depend on overall health and medical conditions. Avoiding excessive alcohol or smoking can also help.
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