Can this result diagnose a condition on its own?

No. The result should be interpreted with symptoms, medical history, assay method and related tests.

Which reference range should I use?

Use the performing laboratory's own reference or decision range and reporting method first.

When should I discuss the result with a healthcare professional?

Reactive/positive, clearly abnormal, persistent or symptom-associated results should be reviewed by a healthcare professional.

Information about a laboratory test

Free Testosterone What Does This Test Mean?

Free Testosterone measures the relevant hormone level in blood.

Test summary

Test name: Free Testosterone
Abbreviations: Free T, FT
Category: Endocrinology / Reproductive
Panel: Androgen Evaluation
Specimen: Serum / plasma
Common units: pg/mL, ng/dL, pmol/L

What does the test measure?

Free Testosterone measures the relevant hormone level in blood.

Why is the test ordered?

Free Testosterone is used in hormonal evaluation together with age, sex, symptoms and related hormones.

Information about a low result

A low result can reflect many factors including age, sex, hormonal state, medicines and testing conditions.

Information about a high result

A high result does not indicate one specific disease; clinical context and related hormones matter.

Reference and clinical context

Start with the performing laboratory's reference or decision range, assay method, specimen and reporting unit. A single result usually does not establish a diagnosis on its own.

Reference ranges may vary by laboratory, method used, age, sex, pregnancy status, and clinical context. The reference range on your own laboratory report takes precedence.

Interpretation notes

Hormone reference ranges can vary by age, sex, timing and assay; DHEA-S changes substantially with age and free testosterone is influenced by SHBG.

Related specialties

Endocrinology
Internal Medicine

Frequently asked questions

More information about this test

Sources

Testosterone Levels Test — U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus)
Government medical reference · 2025 · Total, free and bioavailable testosterone testing · Verified: Aug 12, 2026
DHEA Sulfate Test — U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus)
Government medical reference · 2024 · DHEA-S purpose and age/sex interpretation context · Verified: Aug 12, 2026
SHBG Blood Test — U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus)
Government medical reference · 2026 · SHBG and testosterone-binding context · Verified: Aug 12, 2026