Testosterone, Serum
This test measures the amount of testosterone, a key hormone in men and women, in your blood serum. Testosterone plays a role in muscle and bone development, sex drive, and overall health.
["Understanding your testosterone levels can help identify hormonal imbalances or related health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17687-5
- Short code
- Testost/Epitestost SerPl
- Synonyms
- Testost/Epitestost SerPl
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Doctors may order a testosterone test to diagnose conditions like low testosterone (hypogonadism) or high testosterone (hyperandrogenism). It can also help evaluate symptoms such as fatigue, changes in libido, or menstrual irregularities. Sometimes, it’s part of a broader evaluation for fertility issues or other hormonal disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves drawing blood from a vein. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near the testing site for a short time. If you’re taking medications that affect hormones, inform your healthcare provider beforehand.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm or hand to collect blood. You may feel a brief pinch, but the process is quick. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What Are the Results?
Results are typically reported as a concentration of testosterone in the blood, though exact reference ranges vary by age, sex, and individual health. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Testosterone levels can fluctuate due to age, stress, illness, or medications. Low testosterone may cause symptoms like reduced energy, mood changes, or sexual dysfunction in men or irregular periods in women. High levels might lead to acne, excessive hair growth, or menstrual issues. Your doctor will use these results to guide treatment if needed, such as hormone therapy or addressing underlying conditions.
Short name
Testosterone Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Will this test affect my medications?
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