A Testosterone Free & Total with SHBG panel provides comprehensive evaluation of testosterone status by measuring total testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and calculating free testosterone.
What This Test Measures
Total Testosterone:
The total amount of testosterone in your blood, including both bound and free testosterone.
Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG):
A protein that binds testosterone and affects how much is available for use. High SHBG means less free testosterone; low SHBG means more.
Free Testosterone (Calculated):
The unbound testosterone available to enter cells and exert effects. Calculated from total testosterone and SHBG using validated algorithms.
Calculated Bioavailable Testosterone:
Some panels include this – the testosterone that’s either free or loosely bound to albumin.
Why This Panel Is Valuable
Total testosterone alone doesn’t tell the whole story:
• A man with normal total testosterone but high SHBG may have low free testosterone and symptoms
• A man with borderline-low total testosterone but low SHBG may have adequate free testosterone
• This panel reveals hormone availability, not just production
Who Should Consider This Test
Men:
• Symptoms of low testosterone:
– Fatigue and low energy
– Decreased libido or erectile dysfunction
– Loss of muscle mass
– Increased body fat
– Mood changes, irritability, depression
– Difficulty concentrating
• Before starting testosterone replacement therapy (baseline)
• Monitoring testosterone therapy effectiveness
• Abnormal total testosterone requiring clarification
Women:
• Symptoms of androgen excess or deficiency
• PCOS evaluation
• Low libido evaluation
Reference Ranges
Total Testosterone (Men): 264-916 ng/dL (varies by age and lab)
SHBG (Men): 10-57 nmol/L
Free Testosterone (Men): 5.0-21.0 ng/dL (calculated values vary)
Ranges differ significantly for women and vary by laboratory.
How It Works
1. Order your test online – no doctor visit required
2. Visit any Quest Diagnostics location nationwide
3. Simple blood draw takes approximately 5 minutes
4. Results delivered to your secure portal within 1-2 business days
Preparation
For most accurate results, test in the morning (before 10 AM) when testosterone levels are highest. No fasting required unless combined with other tests.
Related Tests to Consider
• Estradiol – Important for hormone balance in men
• PSA – Prostate screening recommended before/during TRT
• CBC/Hematocrit – Monitor red blood cell levels on TRT
• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel – Overall health assessment
Why Choose Wittmer Rejuvenation Clinic
At $84, this comprehensive panel is excellent value compared to ordering tests separately or through hospital labs. As a hormone replacement therapy clinic, we understand that proper testosterone evaluation requires more than just a total testosterone level. We partner with Quest Diagnostics for reliable, CLIA-certified laboratory testing with convenient locations across all 50 states.
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