Biomarker Reference · Total T
Testosterone, Total (Total T) is a clinical biomarker used in female-hormones assessment. Testosterone in women derives roughly equally from ovarian theca cells and the adrenal cortex, with a further contribution from peripheral conversion of androstenedione and DHEA. It is measured in 1 laboratory test on BiomarkersLabs.com.
Testosterone in women derives roughly equally from ovarian theca cells and the adrenal cortex, with a further contribution from peripheral conversion of androstenedione and DHEA. Circulating concentrations are approximately one twentieth of male levels, and most is bound to sex hormone binding globulin, leaving a small free fraction that is biologically active.
Total testosterone is measured in the assessment of hirsutism, acne, androgenic alopecia, and suspected polycystic ovary syndrome, and to exclude an androgen-secreting tumour where hyperandrogenism is severe or rapidly progressive. Its principal limitation in women is analytical: female concentrations sit at the lower limit of most immunoassays, where performance is poor, and mass spectrometry is substantially more reliable. Because SHBG is suppressed by insulin resistance, a normal total testosterone can accompany clinically significant free androgen excess, so SHBG or a free androgen index adds interpretive value.
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and assay platform. Interpret in context of the issuing laboratory's stated range.
1 test on BiomarkersLabs.com include this biomarker.
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