Sex Hormone Binding Globulin

Casandra

Casandra Test Code AR47431Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab ARUP LaboratoriesLab Test ID 0099375CPT Code 84270

Sex Hormone Binding Globulin

Also known as: SHBG

Clinical Use

Order Test

Use

The Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) test is used to evaluate the level of SHBG in the blood. SHBG is a protein produced by the liver that binds tightly to three sex hormones: estrogen, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and testosterone. This test helps to understand conditions related to abnormal levels of testosterone and estrogen, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, hypothyroidism, and disorders of the liver. It is often used to calculate the free androgen index (FAI) to get a more reliable measure of free testosterone in men and women.

Special Instructions

The specimen for the SHBG test must be collected in a serum separator tube or a green lithium heparin tube. The serum specimen needs to clot completely at room temperature before separation. It is crucial to separate serum or plasma from cells as soon as possible, or within two hours of collection. Subsequently, transfer 0.4 to 0.5 mL of serum or plasma to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube for transportation.

Limitations

The SHBG test is subject to limitations such as potential interference from cross-reacting substances in the serum that may affect the accuracy of the results. Results should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory findings. Grossly hemolyzed specimens and those collected in lavender (EDTA) or pink (K2EDTA) tubes are unacceptable as they may produce inaccurate results. This assay may not be definitive to diagnose or rule out conditions without comprehensive clinical context.

Test Details

FDA Approved

New York Approved

Methodology

Immunoassay (ECLIA)

Biomarkers

Sex Hormone Binding Globulin

Protein

Concentration • Concentration / Level • Quantitative (Continuous) (e.g., copies/mL, % expression)

LOINC Codes

Order Codes

13967-5

Result Turnaround Time

1 day

Specimen

Serum

Volume

0.5 mL

Minimum Volume

0.4 mL

Container

Serum separator tube or ARUP Standard Transport Tube

Collection Instructions

Allow serum specimen to clot completely at room temperature. Separate serum or plasma from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer 0.5 mL serum or plasma to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube.