Free Testosterone is an important marker in the endocrine panel used to evaluate libido, muscle mass, and bone density in the body. Free Testosterone testing is performed for both men and women for different medical purposes. Medic Sai Gon Diagnostic Clinic is a reputable Free Testosterone testing center in Da Nang.
What Is a Free Testosterone Test?
The free testosterone index is a calculated value that helps evaluate the amount of free (biologically active) testosterone in the body. It is the form of testosterone that is not bound to proteins such as sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) or albumin, and it plays an important role in functions like libido, muscle mass, and bone density.
A testosterone test is a blood test used to calculate the free testosterone index, and it is usually performed together with other endocrine tests.
What Is the Difference Between Testosterone and Free Testosterone Tests?
People often confuse these two types of tests, but in reality, they are completely different and are recommended to be performed concurrently during an endocrine check-up.
Testosterone comprises both testosterone bound to serum proteins and free testosterone, encompassing both the active and stored portions. A testosterone test helps provide an overall assessment of the body’s total testosterone status.
Free Testosterone specifically measures the concentration of unbound testosterone in the body, which is the biologically active form that directly acts on target organs, typically accounting for only 1-3% of the body’s entire total testosterone level.
The Role of Free Testosterone Testing
Free Testosterone testing is particularly useful in cases where SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin, a protein produced by the liver) levels are abnormal (for example: in liver disease, obesity, or thyroid disorders), as these changes can significantly affect the interpretation of total testosterone levels without accurately reflecting the active hormone levels.
This test is also used to evaluate conditions related to testosterone imbalance, such as androgen deficiency, androgen excess (for example: multi-endocrine metabolic ovary syndrome (PMOS – polycystic ovary syndrome)), and in the diagnosis and treatment of infertility in both men and women.
What Is a Normal Free Testosterone Level?
The free testosterone index reflects the amount of testosterone hormone that can be directly used by the body. This test needs to be evaluated based on the age, sex, and testing purpose of each patient. For adult men and women, free testosterone values can fluctuate within the following ranges:
- Adult males: 50 – 210 pg/mL (≈ 5 – 21 ng/dL)
- Adult females: 0.3 – 3.5 pg/mL
When the free testosterone index is too low or too high compared to the normal range, it may suggest several conditions:
- If this index is low: the body may experience issues such as reduced libido, erectile dysfunction in men, fatigue, decreased bone density, reduced muscle mass, and infertility due to diminished sperm quality.
- High free testosterone index: This can be encountered in multi-endocrine metabolic ovary syndrome (PMOS) in women, ovarian tumors, difficulty conceiving, adrenal gland disorders, or due to the use of testosterone/steroids.
Free Testosterone is typically not evaluated individually but needs to be combined with tests for Total Testosterone, SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin), Albumin, LH, FSH, and Estradiol or Prolactin. From there, it allows for a more accurate diagnosis of the causes behind an abnormally high or low index, supporting the diagnosis of endocrine diseases, infertility, or hypogonadism.
See more: Endocrine Testing for Expatriate Clients at Medic Saigon
How Much Does a Free Testosterone Test Cost?
The cost of a Free Testosterone test may vary depending on the medical facility, testing method, and accompanying services. Typically, the price for a Free Testosterone test at Medic Sai Gon Clinic in Da Nang is 350,000 VND. It is performed within the clinic’s endocrine testing panel.
Patients do not need to fast when taking this test, but they should avoid strenuous exercise or consuming stimulants such as beer, wine, or other alcoholic beverages, which can affect the test results. In addition, if you are currently using medications related to endocrine issues, you should inform the doctor for specific guidance before taking the test.
Where to Get a Free Testosterone Test in Da Nang?
Currently, most clinics and hospitals across Da Nang City perform this type of test. However, if you are looking for a reputable, fast, and cost-effective testing facility, Medic Sai Gon Clinic in Da Nang is an excellent choice for you.
With more than 15 years of experience in the medical laboratory field, the clinic is equipped with modern machinery and a highly experienced team of technicians. Medic Sai Gon is a trusted testing facility for local clients in the Da Nang area as well as foreigners living, traveling, and working in Da Nang.
The clinic currently offers Free Testosterone testing as well as a comprehensive range of other endocrine testing services for both men and women… The clinic is committed to bringing maximum satisfaction to our valued clients when choosing us as their health check-up and testing provider.
Contact: MEDIC SAI GON DIAGNOSTIC CLINIC
- Address: 97 Hai Phong, Hai Chau, Da Nang
- Hotline/Zalo/WhatsApp: 0914 496 516
