Test Background Testosterone is primarily synthesised in the testes and, to a lesser extent, the adrenal cortex and ovaries (females). Diminished concentrations may correspond to erectile dysfunction and infertility (males) whereas raised levels may indicate the presence of a testosterone-secreting tumour or, following administration of exogenous steroids (males or females), precocious puberty (males) or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) (females).
Clinical Indications Diagnosis of fertility and erectile dysfunction Diagnosis of PCOS Monitoring of steroid replacement therapy/detection of steroid misuse Monitoring androgen ablation therapy during treatment for prostatic carcinoma
Reference Range
Male 10-30 nmol/L
Female ≤ 2.0 nmol/L
Children <10 years see report
Sample Required Serum (gold or red top)
Sample Volume 1 mL
Turnaround Time
1 day (samples reflexed for confirmation by LC-MS/MS analysis may take up to 1 week)
Notes
Testosterone:SHBG ratio female reference range 1.0-6.0.
NB. From 1st December 2014, the method for female testosterone analysis changed to immunoassay. Samples with elevated results on the immunoassay method will be automatically reflexed for confirmation by LC-MS/MS analysis.
Samples received from external laboratories will continue to be analysed by LC-MS/MS first line; please request TesX to ensure the correct test is requested at booking in.