This test measures the following biomarker:

• Total testosterone

  Total testosterone is essential for the growth, development, and function of male reproductive organs. It also helps develop bone density, muscle strength, and fat distribution. The total testosterone test measures both free and protein-bound testosterone.

• Free testosterone

  Free testosterone is the active steroid hormone produced by the testicles that is essential for the growth, development, and function of the penis and testes. It also maintains bone density, fat distribution, muscle strength, and relates to mood, libido, and energy levels in men. Monitoring free testosterone levels in males helps in diagnosing and managing issues related to these functions.

• SHBG

  SHBG is a protein made mostly by the liver. It attaches to sex hormones in the blood, like estrogen and testosterone, and helps control how much of these hormones are active in the body. High SHBG levels can lower free testosterone. Abnormal SHBG levels can also indicate hormone problems like hyperthyroidism or low sex hormones. SHBG levels can also reflect liver health, with changes suggesting liver disease or problems.

• FAI

  A free androgen index (FAI) measures the balance of total testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) in the blood to estimate free testosterone levels. It's useful for detecting hormone imbalances in men, which can affect sexual function, muscle mass, and overall health. FAI results are used to diagnose and treat conditions related to low or high testosterone, help to manage symptoms and plan appropriate treatments.

• Albumin

  Albumin is a protein produced by the liver that helps diagnose liver and kidney disorders. Albumin is an antioxidant and detoxifying protein that prevents fluid loss and transports nutrients and hormones throughout the body.

• DHEAS

  The DHEAS hormone, primarily produced by the adrenal glands and also by the testes, helps create male sex hormones. It's crucial for body changes during puberty. This test checks adrenal gland function, identifies adrenal problems, and addresses hormone issues like early or late puberty. It helps your provider understand adrenal health and treat hormone-related issues.

• Estradiol

  In men, estradiol is produced in small amounts in the testes and adrenal glands. It has various essential functions in men, including maintaining bone density and sexual function, regulating cardiovascular and brain health, and affects metabolism.

• Insulin

  Insulin is important for using and storing glucose, which is a type of sugar that comes from the food we eat and is the body's main energy source. After eating, food is digested and glucose enters into the bloodstream. Insulin helps move glucose out of the bloodstream into the body's cells, especially muscle cells, to make energy. It also tells the liver to change extra glucose into fat and carbohydrates.

• Prolactin

  Prolactin plays an important role in men and in the function of the testicles, the production of testosterone (the main male sex hormone), and in sperm production. Prolactin levels can help to determine the cause of impotence (inability to have an erection during sex), reduced desire for sex, and infertility in males.

• Cortisol

  Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. It is the "stress hormone" with many other functions including, regulating blood sugar levels, reducing inflammation, and controlling blood pressure. Cortisol levels usually peak in the morning and reach their lowest point at night. Measuring cortisol helps monitor and manage adrenal gland issues.

• PSA

  The Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein that is produced by the prostate gland and is secreted into the bloodstream. It serves as a critical method for assessing prostate health, for screening and monitoring prostate cancer, and it assists healthcare professionals in evaluating prostate health and guiding diagnostic and treatment strategies.