Total Testosterone (Serum)
This test measures the amount of total testosterone, a key male sex hormone, in your blood. Testosterone plays a role in muscle development, bone density, and overall male health.
["Your testosterone levels help determine if you have healthy hormone balance and support male reproductive and general health functions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14913-8
- Short code
- Testost SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Testost SerPl-sCnc
- 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 total testosterone test to evaluate symptoms of low or high hormone levels, such as fatigue, changes in libido, or unexplained muscle weakness. It’s also used in diagnosing conditions like hypogonadism (low testosterone) or Cushing’s syndrome (high cortisol-related testosterone changes).
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your lab uses a specific method. Wear comfortable clothing for a blood draw, and let your doctor or phlebotomist know about any medications or health conditions.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare provider will insert a small needle into your arm to draw blood. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes only a few minutes. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis.
What Are the Possible Results?
Results are compared to general reference ranges, but individual ranges can vary by lab. High or low levels may indicate underlying health concerns that need further evaluation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Total testosterone levels help diagnose hormonal imbalances that could affect fertility, energy, mood, or bone health. For example, low testosterone may require treatment options like hormone therapy, while high levels could signal conditions like tumors or adrenal disorders that need medical attention.
Short name
Total testosterone level
Frequently asked questions
What does a total testosterone test measure?
Why might my doctor order this test?
Typically, no fasting is required unless instructed by your lab or doctor. However, always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions to ensure accurate results.
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