Testosterone, Serum or Plasma Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of testosterone, a key male sex hormone, in your blood. Testosterone plays a role in muscle and bone development, red blood cell production, and sexual function.
["Testosterone levels help diagnose hormonal imbalances or conditions affecting male or female reproductive health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2992-6
- Short code
- Testost Amn-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Testost Amn-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Your doctor may order this test to measure your testosterone levels if you have symptoms such as low energy, low sex drive, mood changes, or difficulty having a baby. It can help diagnose conditions like hypogonadism, monitor hormone therapy, or look into certain health concerns in both men and women.
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for hormonal issues, such as low or high testosterone levels, which can affect fertility, energy, or symptoms like fatigue, low libido, or irregular menstrual cycles. It may also be used in evaluating conditions like hypogonadism (low testosterone) or Cushing’s syndrome (high cortisol-related testosterone changes).
Before the test, your doctor will explain the procedure and may ask you to have your blood drawn in the morning, when testosterone levels are usually highest. You might need to fast for a few hours or temporarily stop certain medicines, such as steroids or hormone supplements, but only if your doctor tells you to do so.
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours before testing. If you’re taking medications that affect hormones, let your provider know. Women may be advised to test during the follicular phase of their menstrual cycle for more accurate results.
During the test, a healthcare professional will wrap a band around your upper arm, clean the skin, and draw a small sample of blood from a vein, usually in your arm. It takes only a few minutes, and you may feel a quick pinch when the needle goes in. A small bandage will be placed on the spot afterward.
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a brief pinch, but the procedure is quick and typically painless. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. You can usually return to your normal activities immediately after.
Your results will show whether your testosterone level falls within the normal range for your age and sex. Low levels may point to conditions such as hypogonadism, pituitary problems, or chronic illness, while high levels can occur with hormone use or certain tumors. Your doctor will explain what your numbers mean and whether you need more testing or treatment.
Testosterone levels vary by age, sex, and health status. Your results will be compared to reference ranges provided by your lab. Low levels may indicate conditions like hypogonadism, while very high levels could suggest tumors or other hormonal imbalances. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Testosterone Level
Frequently asked questions
Low testosterone levels may cause symptoms like reduced muscle mass, fatigue, mood changes, or difficulty concentrating. In men, it can also affect sexual function. High testosterone levels may lead to acne, excessive body hair, or mood swings and could signal underlying conditions like tumors or Cushing’s syndrome. Regular monitoring helps manage these conditions effectively.
The frequency depends on your health and symptoms. If you have a known hormonal condition, your provider may recommend testing every few months or annually. For routine check-ups or unexplained symptoms, testing may be done once or twice a year. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance.
What if my results are outside the normal range?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy