Free Testosterone

The testosterone test is a medical diagnostic tool used to measure testosterone levels in the blood. Testosterone is a hormone that plays an important role in the development of male sexual characteristics, such as muscle growth, deepening of the voice, and hair growth. It also affects fertility and sperm production in men. In women, testosterone contributes to muscle and bone strength and sex drive. The test can help diagnose several health conditions related to testosterone levels, such as hypogonadism, infertility, and certain types of cancer. The test can be performed using a blood sample from an arm vein or finger stick. Results are usually reported in ng/dL and compared to reference ranges established by the laboratory. Testosterone testing is an important tool for healthcare providers to assess hormonal imbalances and develop appropriate treatment plans for their patients.

Price of test:£53

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Awaiting result:

One day

Collect material:

Blood

Prepare:

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Purpose of the test

The Testosterone Test is a valuable tool for healthcare providers to assess hormonal imbalances and diagnose or manage various conditions related to testosterone levels. The test can be used to evaluate the following conditions

- Erectile dysfunction: Testosterone plays a critical role in sexual function, and low testosterone levels can cause difficulty getting or maintaining an erection. The test can help determine if low testosterone levels are contributing to erectile dysfunction.

- Infertility: Testosterone is necessary for sperm production, and low testosterone levels can lead to infertility in men. The test can help determine if low testosterone levels are contributing to infertility.

- Delayed or early puberty: Testosterone is responsible for the development of male sexual characteristics during puberty. Delayed or premature puberty can be caused by abnormal testosterone levels, and the test can help determine if this is the case.

- Male physical characteristics in females: In rare cases, women may have high levels of testosterone that cause masculine physical characteristics, such as facial hair growth or a deepening voice. The test can help determine if high testosterone levels are causing these symptoms.

- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a common hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS may have high levels of testosterone, which can cause irregular periods, acne, and excessive hair growth. The test can help diagnose PCOS by measuring testosterone levels.

- Male menopause: As men age, their testosterone levels naturally decline. This decline can cause symptoms such as fatigue, decreased sex drive, and mood changes. The test can help determine if low testosterone levels are contributing to these symptoms.

The ability to detect hormonal imbalances early through the use of the testosterone test is critical for effective management and treatment of related conditions. Failure to test could result in delayed diagnosis and treatment, with potentially serious consequences such as infertility or increased risk of certain cancers.

The Testosterone Test is an important diagnostic tool that can help healthcare providers assess hormonal imbalances and diagnose or manage various conditions related to testosterone levels. Early detection through the use of this test can lead to effective treatment and improved patient outcomes.

Who Should Get Tested

Testosterone Testing may be indicated for individuals who are experiencing symptoms related to hormonal imbalances or who have risk factors for conditions related to testosterone levels. This may include

- Men with erectile dysfunction or infertility.
- Boys with delayed or early puberty
- Women with masculine features or irregular periods
- Women with a family history of PCOS
- Transgender men taking hormone therapy
- Men over the age of 50 with symptoms of male menopause

In addition, healthcare providers may recommend testosterone testing as part of routine health screening for certain populations, such as

- Men over age 40
- Men with a family history of prostate cancer
- Individuals with a history of pituitary disorders

Please note that the decision to be tested should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider. They can help determine if testing is necessary based on an individual's medical history, symptoms, and risk factors. Early detection through the use of this test can lead to effective treatment and improved patient outcomes.

Blood Test Preparation Guidelines

Time of day

It is recommended to schedule your appointment for blood tests in the morning hours between 7:00-10:00.

Fasting

It is recommended to fast for approximately 12 hours before blood sampling. The last meal of the previous day should ideally be consumed around 6:00 p.m. On the day before the test, avoid heavy and fatty meals as well as alcohol.

Stay hydrated

Drinking water prior to testing can help with sample collection.

Other factors

Tests should not be performed after a sleepless night or intense physical activity. It is recommended to avoid exercise and stress immediately before blood collection and to not smoke. A short rest is recommended.

Medications and supplements:

Blood samples should be collected before the morning dose. Some drugs can interfere with test results. Consult with your doctor whether you can delay your dose because of lab tests.

Biotin supplements:

High doses of biotin supplements can affect test results, causing false elevation or reduction. It's recommended to avoid taking biotin for at least 72 hours before blood collection. If you are taking biotin, inform the personnel collecting the blood so that they can provide specific instructions.

Interpreting Test Results

Free testosterone refers to the testosterone in the blood that is not bound to proteins, specifically sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) or albumin. It represents a small fraction of the total testosterone, typically around 2%, but plays a crucial role as it is the "active" form of the hormone, readily available for the body to use.

When you receive your free testosterone test results, they will be measured in picograms per milliliter (pg/mL) or nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL), depending on the laboratory. The typical reference range for adult males is between 5.0 to 21.0 pg/mL, though this can vary slightly between labs.

Results outside the standard range can provide insights into various health conditions. Low levels of free testosterone might indicate hypogonadism, where the body doesn't produce enough testosterone. It could also suggest issues with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus. High levels, on the other hand, might be indicative of conditions like testicular tumors or adrenal gland disorders.

It's essential to note that free testosterone levels can be influenced by various factors, including age, overall health, medications, and lifestyle choices. For instance, conditions like obesity or type 2 diabetes can lower SHBG levels, leading to higher free testosterone levels. Conversely, liver disease or hyperthyroidism can increase SHBG levels, reducing free testosterone.

Given the complexities in interpreting free testosterone levels, it's crucial to discuss your results with a healthcare professional. They can provide context, considering your overall health, symptoms, and other relevant test results.

Price of test:£53

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £NaN

AI-Powered Insights and Expert Validation

Advanced AI Interpretation

Diagu's AI system represents a breakthrough in medical test analysis, employing state-of-the-art algorithms meticulously trained on a vast spectrum of authoritative medical literature and data. This system intricately analyses laboratory test results, extracting nuanced insights that might elude conventional methods. Our AI delves into complex interrelations between various health markers, offering a comprehensive understanding that supports accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. The foundation of our AI's analytical prowess lies in its extensive training, encompassing data from globally recognised medical journals, trusted healthcare databases, and breakthrough scientific studies. This ensures that every analysis is grounded in the latest and most comprehensive medical knowledge.

Expert Doctor Confirmation

While our AI provides deep analytical insights, the human touch remains indispensable. Every AI-generated interpretation is meticulously reviewed by experienced medical professionals, ensuring a harmonious blend of advanced technology and expert clinical judgment. This dual-layer approach guarantees that the insights provided are not only technologically sophisticated but also clinically relevant. Our medical experts ensure that the AI's interpretations align with current medical standards and practices, adding a layer of validation that only seasoned healthcare professionals can provide. This process reinforces the reliability of the test results, offering peace of mind to both patients and healthcare providers.

Language Model and Trusted Sources

At the core of Diagu's AI system is an advanced language model, engineered to transform complex medical data into clear, comprehensible, and informative descriptions. This model is adept at articulating detailed test analyses in a way that is accessible to both healthcare professionals and patients. The model's development involved the meticulous processing of high-quality sources, including reputable medical websites, renowned medical textbooks, and peer-reviewed research papers. This ensures that the language used in test descriptions is not only accurate and informative but also up-to-date with the latest medical findings and trends. By leveraging this rich tapestry of trusted sources, our AI system provides a deeper understanding of each test, fostering informed decision-making and enhanced patient care.

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