Testosterone, Total
Use
Testosterone testing is used to evaluate androgen excess or deficiency related to gonadal function, adrenal function, or tumor activity. Testosterone levels may be helpful in men for the diagnosis of hypogonadism, hypopituitarism, Klinefelter syndrome, and impotence (low values). Testosterone levels may be requested in women to investigate the cause of hirsutism, anovulation, amenorrhea, virilization, masculinizing tumors of the ovary, tumors of the adrenal cortices, and congenital adrenal hyperplasia (high values). Testosterone levels in children may be helpful to investigate issues related to puberty and development as well as the aforementioned. For testosterone measurements in females and children, use of Testosterone, Total, Women, Children, and Hypogonadal Males, LC/MS-MS [070001], which employs liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS), is recommended.
Special Instructions
This test may show interference if the sample is collected from someone consuming high doses of biotin. It's advised to ask patients about biotin supplementation and suggest stopping biotin at least 72 hours before sample collection.
Limitations
Erroneous results may occur in patients treated with monoclonal mouse antibodies or those with extremely high antibodies to streptavidin and ruthenium. The test contains additives to minimize these issues. Additionally, it's not recommended for women and children due to alternative methods being better suited for such patients.
Methodology
Immunoassay (ECLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2986-8
- 2986-8
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.7 mL
Container
Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube or green-top (lithium heparin) tube
Collection Instructions
If a red-top tube or plasma is used, transfer separated serum or plasma to a plastic transport tube.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature
Causes for Rejection
Citrate plasma specimen; improper labeling
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |
