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, as well as sex drive and red blood cell production.
["Understanding your testosterone levels can help assess hormone balance, especially in men or women experiencing symptoms like fatigue or reproductive issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2986-8
- Short code
- Testost SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Testost SerPl-mCnc
- 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 Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like low libido, fatigue, muscle weakness, or changes in mood and energy. It may also be checked during evaluations for infertility, delayed puberty, or conditions like hypogonadism (low testosterone). In women, it could be part of a workup for irregular periods or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
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 draw if your lab uses a specific method. Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol for 24 hours prior. If you’re taking medications that affect hormones, let your provider know.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a general reference range for your age, sex, and health status. While testosterone levels can vary widely, abnormal results may signal hormonal imbalances that require further evaluation, such as additional blood tests or medical consultation.
Common Conditions Linked to Testosterone Levels
Low testosterone can be linked to conditions like hypogonadism, chronic illnesses (e.g., kidney or liver disease), or certain medications. High levels may be associated with tumors or Cushing’s syndrome. Your provider will discuss findings in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Testosterone levels can influence energy, mood, and physical strength. They may also affect fertility and bone density. Abnormal results often prompt further evaluation to identify underlying causes, such as thyroid issues, obesity, or genetic factors.
Short name
Testosterone Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes my testosterone levels to be checked?
How do I prepare for this test?
Will my results affect my treatment?
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