๐ Last Updated: April 2026ย |ย ๐ฉบ Medically Reviewed by: Edward Salko, D.O., Medical Directorย |ย ๐งช Lab Partner: Labcorp
Comprehensive Testosterone Profile โ Markers and Normal Ranges
| Marker | Normal Range | Clinical Significance |
|—|—|—|
| Testosterone Total | 300โ1,000 ng/dL | Master hormone โ low total triggers workup |
| Testosterone Free | 9โ30 ng/dL | Bioavailable testosterone โ often low with normal total |
| SHBG | 10โ57 nmol/L | High SHBG = low free T despite normal total |
| Albumin | 3.5โ5.0 g/dL | Loosely binds testosterone โ affects bioavailable T |
| Estradiol (Sensitive) | 10โ40 pg/mL | Testosterone to estrogen conversion ratio |
| LH | 1.7โ8.6 IU/L | Pituitary signal โ high LH = primary hypogonadism |
| FSH | 1.5โ12.4 IU/L | Sperm production, testicular function |
| Bioavailable Testosterone | 61โ213 ng/dL | Free T + albumin-bound โ most clinically complete |
The Complete Testosterone Picture โ Why More Markers Matter
A single testosterone total is the starting point โ not the finish line โ of any meaningful testosterone evaluation. The Comprehensive Testosterone Profile measures eight interconnected markers that together reveal the full hormonal picture.
Why each additional marker matters:
SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) is the most important variable in testosterone interpretation. SHBG binds testosterone tightly, making it biologically inactive. A man with total testosterone of 500 ng/dL and SHBG of 60 nmol/L may have the same functional testosterone availability as a man with total testosterone of 280 ng/dL and SHBG of 20 nmol/L. Without SHBG you cannot accurately interpret total testosterone.
Bioavailable testosterone โ calculated from total testosterone, SHBG, and albumin โ is the most clinically accurate single measure of functional testosterone status. Many endocrinologists and urologists now prefer bioavailable testosterone over free testosterone alone for treatment decisions.
Estradiol tells you the conversion rate. High estradiol with normal or low testosterone indicates excessive aromatization โ often related to body fat, alcohol, or aromatase enzyme variation. This determines whether an aromatase inhibitor is appropriate.
LH and FSH localize the problem. High LH with low testosterone = primary hypogonadism (the testes are failing to respond to the pituitary signal). Low LH with low testosterone = secondary hypogonadism (the pituitary is not sending adequate signal). These require completely different treatment approaches.
This is the panel that TRT-prescribing physicians use for initial evaluation before starting testosterone therapy โ and what informed patients order to understand their full hormonal status before the first consultation.
Reviewed by Edward Salko, D.O., Medical Director, Personalabs
Use:
Did you know that an erectile dysfunction can be a sign of an underlying health condition that needs treatment? This comprehensive profile offers testing of possible health conditions that may be causing impotence.
Recommended For:
Males who are concerned or experiencing erectile dysfunction.
Special Notes:
No special preparation necessary prior to blood sample.
Tests Included:
Lipid Panel (303756)
Prostate-specific Antigen (PSA) (480772)
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP 14) (322000)
Thyroid Profile with TSH (000620)
FSH and LH (028480)
Hemoglobin A1c with Estimated Average Glucose (102525)
CBC with Differential/Platelet Count (005009)
Urinalysis, Complete With Microscopic Examination (003772)
Estimated Turn Around For Results:
2-10 Business Days
For an exact turnaround time for results, please contact us at Personalabs and we will contact the lab on your behalf as turnaround times vary depending on testing location or lab testing provider.
Frequently Asked Questions: Comprehensive Testosterone Profile
What is the difference between this and a basic testosterone test?
A basic testosterone test measures total testosterone only โ one number. The Comprehensive Testosterone Profile adds Free Testosterone, SHBG, Albumin, Bioavailable Testosterone, Estradiol, LH, and FSH. This gives the complete picture: how much testosterone is bioavailable, why it may be low, whether conversion to estrogen is excessive, and whether the problem originates in the testes or the pituitary.
What is SHBG and why does it matter for testosterone?
SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) is a protein that binds testosterone tightly, making it biologically inactive. High SHBG means less free testosterone is available to tissues regardless of total testosterone level. Aging, liver disease, hyperthyroidism, and certain medications all raise SHBG. Without measuring SHBG you cannot accurately assess functional testosterone availability.
What does bioavailable testosterone measure?
Bioavailable testosterone measures the fraction of testosterone that is either completely free or loosely bound to albumin โ both forms that are available to tissue cells. It is calculated from total testosterone, SHBG, and albumin and is considered by many endocrinologists the most clinically accurate single measure of functional testosterone status.
Do I need to fast and when should I test?
Testosterone should be tested between 7 and 10 AM โ levels are 20 to 30% higher in the morning. No fasting is required specifically for testosterone, but if you want the most comprehensive baseline test in the morning fasted state. Available through Personalabs without a doctor’s visit โ results in 24 to 48 hours.
