Serum Testosterone (S. testosterone)
Serum testosterone (S. testosterone) testing is utilized primarily to evaluate:
- Hypogonadism: Serum testosterone levels are measured to diagnose hypogonadism, a condition characterized by insufficient testosterone production. Hypogonadism can occur due to primary testicular failure (primary hypogonadism) or hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction (secondary hypogonadism). Symptoms of hypogonadism include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, and mood changes. Testosterone testing helps confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment decisions.
- Evaluation of androgen deficiency: Testosterone testing is used to assess androgen deficiency in individuals with symptoms suggestive of low testosterone levels, such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and reduced muscle mass. Low testosterone levels may indicate androgen deficiency, which can have various underlying causes, including aging, obesity, chronic illness, or medication side effects.
- Monitoring testosterone replacement therapy: Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is commonly used to treat hypogonadism and androgen deficiency. Serum testosterone levels are monitored during TRT to ensure that testosterone levels are maintained within the therapeutic range and to assess treatment response. Regular monitoring helps optimize TRT dosing and minimize the risk of adverse effects, such as polycythemia, erythrocytosis, or cardiovascular events.
- Evaluation of infertility: Testosterone testing may be performed as part of the evaluation for male infertility. Low testosterone levels, along with other hormone tests (such as follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and prolactin), semen analysis, and clinical assessment, help identify potential causes of infertility and guide treatment strategies.
- Assessment of androgen excess: Testosterone testing may also be used to evaluate androgen excess in conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or androgen-secreting tumors. Elevated testosterone levels, along with other clinical and laboratory findings, aid in the diagnosis and management of androgen excess disorders.