Total Serum Testosterone (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of total testosterone, a key male sex hormone, in your blood. Testosterone plays a role in muscle and bone development, red blood cell production, and sexual function.
["Your testosterone levels help determine if you have healthy hormone balance, especially important for men and women experiencing symptoms of low testosterone."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 59993-6
- Short code
- Testost sp3 p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Testost sp3 p chal 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 This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like low libido, fatigue, or changes in mood and energy. It could also be part of evaluations for infertility, hormonal imbalances, or conditions like hypogonadism (low testosterone). Some men with prostate cancer may also have this test as part of monitoring.
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, let your provider know.
What to Expect During the Test
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to draw blood. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s usually over quickly. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. The process typically takes about 15 minutes.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a reference range that varies by age, sex, and health status. Low testosterone levels may indicate conditions like hypogonadism, while very high levels could suggest hormonal disorders or other health issues. Your provider will discuss the results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Total Testosterone
Frequently asked questions
What Does My Testosterone Level Tell Me About My Health?
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Can I Take Anything Before the Test?
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