Enhanced Testosterone Blood Test - Step2
Enhanced Testosterone Blood Test ( Step2 ) Confirm your initial diagnosis for low testosterone
This comprehensive venous blood test is needed to confirm your testosterone levels and to assess your suitability for testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)
What’s tested: 48 BIOMARKERS ANALYSED
We check your testosterone levels, liver health, kidney function, and indicators of your heart health, such as haematocrit, which help our doctors decide the right treatment options to solve low testosterone.
What does the test measure?
Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG): This protein is produced in the liver and regulates hormone levels by binding to sex hormones, including testosterone. When your SHBG levels are high, your body has less free testosterone available to be used by the body’s cells.
Cholesterol and lipids: Cholesterol and other lipids are evaluated before and during TRT to ensure that the patient is healthy and not at risk of cardiovascular issues.
Albumin: Another protein produced in the liver which binds to testosterone, inhibiting its ability to be used by the body’s cells.
Cortisol: Cortisol is reviewed before TRT to check other hormonal systems are functioning properly.
Oestradiol (Oestrogen): Although oestrogen is considered to be a predominantly female hormone, it’s also present in men and plays an important role in regulating their libidos, erectile function, and the production of sperm. A delicate balance of oestrogen and testosterone ensures optimal sexual function, as well as joint and brain health.
Ferritin: Ferritin is an indicator of a condition that may cause low testosterone.
HbA1c: FHbA1c is a marker used to check for diabetes and poor glycaemic control.
Prolactin: Prolactin is another hormone produced by the pituitary gland. We monitor this as high levels may indicate issues that need treatment before TRT can commence.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH): LH and FSH are hormones (or gonadotropins) produced in the pituitary gland. They control testosterone production in the testicles.
Low or high levels of these hormones can indicate that there’s an issue with the pituitary gland or testicles.
TSH and Free T4: These are hormones produced in the thyroid gland. We measure their levels to check for thyroid issues.
PSA: PSA is prostate specific antigen and is used to check for prostate issues.
How the Enhanced Test works.
Step 1: Order your test: > The enhanced blood test kit has everything a healthcare professional will need to take your blood sample. We'll help you organise your appointment.
Step2: Collect your sample: > Have a healthcare professional at one of our partner clinics or a visit from a nurse collect your blood sample, then post it to the lab for free.
Step 3: Review your results: > Access invaluable health data online in just a few days. Our experts will review your results and give you clear actionable advice.
The physical and mental symptoms of low testosterone can really take their toll, but it doesn’t have to be this way.
What happens when a man’s testosterone is low?
Low levels of testosterone in the blood can cause a number of physical and psychological symptoms. Effects include:
- Decreased libido
- A reduction (or absence) in morning/night-time erections
- Erectile dysfunction
- Decreased body hair
- Gynaecomastia
- Reduction in muscle mass and strength
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
- Mood changes (e.g depression, irritability, anxiety)
- Poor concentration and memory
