Testosterone, Serum (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of testosterone, a key male sex hormone, in your blood. Testosterone helps regulate muscle and bone mass, red blood cell production, and sex characteristics.
["Testosterone levels help assess hormone balance, especially in men and women with suspected hormonal disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2985-0
- Short code
- Testost Smn-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Testost Smn-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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order a testosterone test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as low or high hormone levels, infertility, delayed puberty, or symptoms like low libido, fatigue, or irregular menstrual cycles. It may also be used in evaluating conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or to check for adrenal or pituitary gland issues.
Who Might Need This Test?
Men and women may need this test if they have symptoms linked to hormone imbalances, such as unexplained fatigue, changes in body hair, or reproductive issues. Children might also be tested if they show signs of delayed puberty or growth problems.
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 a blood draw. On the day of the test, avoid smoking or consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours.
What to Expect During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process is quick and typically painless. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormally low testosterone levels can cause symptoms like reduced muscle mass, low energy, or mood changes. High levels may indicate conditions such as tumors affecting hormone production or certain metabolic disorders. Regular monitoring can help manage these conditions effectively.
Short name
Serum Testosterone
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What do my results mean?
Can lifestyle changes affect testosterone levels?
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