Bioavailable Testosterone (Bio T)
Bioavailable Testosterone (Bio T) refers to the fraction of testosterone that includes free testosterone and testosterone bound to albumin. This fraction is considered biologically active and readily available for use by body tissues. Measuring bioavailable testosterone provides a more accurate assessment of androgen status than total testosterone alone, particularly when levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) are altered.
Indications
The test is recommended in the following situations:
- symptoms suggestive of testosterone deficiency in men (decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, chronic fatigue, reduced muscle mass);
- suspected hypogonadism;
- male infertility;
- disorders of pubertal development;
- monitoring of testosterone replacement therapy;
- suspected hyperandrogenism in women (hirsutism, acne, menstrual irregularities);
- polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS);
- conditions associated with altered SHBG levels.
Procedure
The test is performed using a venous blood sample collected by venipuncture. Bioavailable testosterone is determined based on total testosterone, SHBG, and albumin concentrations using validated calculation models.
Investigation Method
Chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA) with calculation of bioavailable testosterone based on total testosterone, SHBG, and albumin levels.
Advantages
- Provides a more accurate assessment of hormonal status compared with measuring total testosterone alone.
- Helps identify hormonal abnormalities that may not be detected when total testosterone levels are within the normal range.
- Takes into account the influence of SHBG on testosterone bioavailability.
- Useful for the diagnosis and monitoring of androgen-related disorders in both men and women.
- Supports the evaluation and monitoring of hormonal therapy effectiveness.
Sources:
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/testosterone-levels-test/
https://superpower.com/biomarker-guides/testosterone-bioavailable?srsltid=AfmBOorw47xLn3cOH33YmxyKmLN25b5LNG_tXOKSDyh81dldzxkSoFBf
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3782425/
Preparation:
- Blood collection is recommended in the morning, between 07: 30 and 11: 00 a. m. , when testosterone levels are most stable.
- The test should be performed fasting, after 8–12 hours without food. Drinking plain water is allowed.
- During the 24 hours before sample collection, avoid alcohol consumption, intense physical activity, and, whenever possible, significant emotional stress.
- 1–3 hours before blood collection, refrain from smoking.
- Patients should inform the medical staff about all medications they are taking, especially hormonal therapy, hormonal contraceptives, anabolic steroids, thyroid hormone preparations, biotin (vitamin B7), and any other medications that may affect test results.
- Do not discontinue prescribed medications without consulting your physician.