Comprehensive Testosterone Test
A comprehensive hormone panel that measures total testosterone, free testosterone, SHBG, and albumin to provide the complete picture of testosterone availability and hormonal balance.
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LevelPanel has no business or affiliate relationship with Quest or LabCorp. These links are provided as a public service.
Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
What this test measures
This panel provides a layered view of testosterone status by measuring four interrelated markers: total testosterone, free testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and albumin. Total testosterone captures all testosterone in the blood, whether bound to proteins or not. Free testosterone represents the small unbound fraction (typically 0.5% to 3% of the total) that is immediately available for use by tissues.
Rather than measuring free testosterone directly, many laboratories calculate it from the relationship between total testosterone, SHBG, and albumin. SHBG and albumin are the two main carrier proteins for testosterone in the blood, and their levels determine how much of the total hormone remains free. When SHBG is elevated, it binds more testosterone, potentially leaving less in the free, active form even if total testosterone appears adequate. Conversely, low SHBG can result in higher free testosterone relative to the total. Evaluating all four markers together reveals not only how much testosterone the body is producing but how much is actually accessible to cells.
What's included
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Men experiencing decreased energy, fatigue, or unexplained tiredness that may indicate low testosterone levels
- Men noticing changes in sex drive, difficulty with erections, or other sexual health concerns that could be hormone-related
- Men dealing with unexplained muscle loss, difficulty building or maintaining muscle mass, or changes in physical strength
- Men with symptoms of mood changes, irritability, or depression that may be linked to hormonal imbalances
- Men whose total testosterone results seemed normal but still experience symptoms that suggest low testosterone
- Men with metabolic concerns, weight gain, or conditions like diabetes that can affect hormone levels
- Men seeking a complete picture of their hormonal health rather than just basic testosterone measurements
What to expect
Preparation
No fasting is required for this test. Schedule your appointment for morning hours (7-10 AM) when possible, as testosterone levels are naturally highest in the morning. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours before testing.
Sample Type
A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a standard needle and collection tube
Collection
Visit your chosen LabCorp location with a photo ID. No appointment necessary at most locations - simply walk in during business hours. The blood draw typically takes less than 5 minutes
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 1-3 business days and will be delivered securely to your online account
Understanding your results
Reference ranges for total testosterone in healthy adult men generally fall around 348 to 723 ng/dL, while calculated free testosterone typically ranges around 70 to 141 pg/mL, though these values can differ between laboratories depending on methodology and population norms. The clinical value of this panel lies in reading the four markers as a set. Total testosterone alone can be misleading when SHBG is unusually high or low; adding free testosterone and SHBG to the picture clarifies whether the hormone is reaching tissues at adequate levels. Healthcare providers interpret the overall pattern alongside symptoms to determine whether hormonal function is within a healthy range.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult men (total testosterone) | 300-1000 ng/dL | Mayo Clinic reference range; varies by lab methodology |
| Adult men (free testosterone) | 70-141 pg/mL | Calculated values; may vary based on SHBG and albumin levels |
| Adult men (SHBG) | 13-57 nmol/L | Increases with age; affects testosterone availability |
| Adult men (albumin) | 3.5-5.2 g/dL | Used in free testosterone calculations |
Reference ranges shown are general guidelines. Your lab report will include the specific reference range used by the laboratory that processed your sample, which is the authoritative range for interpreting your results.
What does a “Low” result mean?
Low total testosterone may indicate hypogonadism, pituitary disorders, or other hormonal imbalances. Low SHBG can be associated with insulin resistance, obesity, or metabolic syndrome, though it may increase free testosterone availability. Low albumin may suggest liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition.
What does a “High” result mean?
Elevated total testosterone may indicate testicular tumors, adrenal gland disorders, or use of testosterone supplements. High SHBG can reduce the amount of available free testosterone despite normal total levels, potentially causing symptoms of low testosterone. Elevated albumin may suggest dehydration or other health conditions.
Privacy & confidentiality
Your test results are delivered confidentially through your secure online account. Results are not shared with employers, insurance companies, or anyone else without your explicit consent. All testing is conducted with complete privacy and discretion.
Frequently asked questions
Last reviewed: April 2026
CPT Code: 84403, 84402, 84270, 82040
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
Order this test
Choose your preferred lab
LevelPanel has no business or affiliate relationship with Quest or LabCorp. These links are provided as a public service.
Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
Not sure if this is the right test? Contact our care team for guidance.
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