Testosterone Free Test

Free Testosterone Test

It is a simple blood test that measures free form of testosterone in the body. It is also called as free T- index. Testosterone is an important hormone secreted in both males and females. In males it is produced in testis and in females it is produced in ovaries. Some amount is also secreted by adrenal glands.

In males testosterone plays a vital role in sexual development. It causes production of sperms, increase in size of genital organs, increase in bone density and muscle mass, deepening in voice and increase sex drive. Its production increases at the time of puberty and gradually decreases as the age advances. In females it is produced in fewer amounts and helps in maintaining hormone balance.

Testosterone secreted in the blood is either bound to proteins such as albumin and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) or it is unbound .this unbound form of testosterone is called as free testosterone. This form of testosterone is easily available for various functions in the body.

Symptoms of low testosterone in males are:

• Low sex drive
• Bone loss/muscle loss
• Low energy
• Infertility
• Anaemia
• Low mood/depression
• Less body hair
• Low testosterone in males can be due to chronic diseases such as AIDS, kidney disease, liver disease, alcohol abuse, testicular injury, cancer radiation and chemotherapy, pituitary gland disorders.

Women with high testosterone levels may be suffering from polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOD) which may present as:

• infertility
• irregular/absent menses
• obesity
• acne
• excessive facial hair growth

Why is free testosterone test prescribed?

Your health care provider may ask for this test in following situations:

• presence of symptoms associated with low testosterone levels in males as mentioned above
• presence of symptoms associated with high testosterone levels in females as mentioned above

Procedure and prerequisites

The sample for free testosterone test is taken from blood by inserting a small needle into vein of your arm. A small amount of blood is then collected in test tube or vial. You may feel some pain due to needle prick. No preparation is needed before this test. This test is usually done early morning. Some medications may interfere with the levels so consult your doctor before this test.

Reference range

• Adult Male-280-1100 ng/dl
• Adult Females-15-70 ng/dl