Testosterone, Serum or Plasma (Total)
This test measures the total amount of testosterone, a key male sex hormone, present in your blood. Testosterone plays a critical role in muscle and bone development, as well as in maintaining libido and overall male health.
["Your testosterone levels help determine if you have healthy hormone balance, especially important for men and women."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72409-6
- Short code
- Testost p HCG SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Testost p HCG SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 5
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84702
- SNOMED
- 275917004
- 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 energy, reduced sex drive, or changes in body hair. It could also be part of evaluations for infertility, hormonal imbalances, or conditions like hypogonadism (low testosterone) or Cushing’s syndrome. Women might get this test if they have irregular periods or other hormonal concerns.
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 a specific type of blood draw is required. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near the testing site for a short time. Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol before the blood draw.
What to Expect During the Test
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to draw a blood sample. You may feel a slight pinch or discomfort, but it usually lasts only a few seconds. The blood will be sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to general reference ranges, but individual ranges can vary based on age, sex, and health status. Low testosterone levels may indicate conditions needing medical attention, while very high levels could signal potential health risks or hormonal disorders.
Reference range
Non-pregnant: <5 mIU/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Total Testosterone
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect testosterone levels?
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