Testosterone, Total

Preferred Specimen(s) 2 mL serum collected in a (red-top) tube (no gel). Specify age and sex on test requisition.

Transport Container Plastic screw-cap vial

Transport Temperature

  • Ambient 3 days,
  • Refrigerated 14 days

Reject Criteria Body fluids

Methodology

  • Automated ICMA
  • Extraction
  • Chromatography
  • Chemiluminescence

Clinical Significance Testosterone circulates almost entirely bound to transport proteins. Normally less than 1% is free. Testosterone measurements are used to assess erectile dysfunction, infertility, gynecomastia, osteoporosis, and hormone replacement therapy.