Question 1

What is Androgen deficiency?

Accepted Answer

Androgen deficiency is a condition where the body produces inadequate levels of male hormones, primarily testosterone. It is caused by testicular dysfunction, pituitary gland problems, or hypothalamic disorders that disrupt testosterone production. The Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable and Total, LC/MS/MS test is the most important test for diagnosis because it measures all forms of testosterone in the blood.

Question 2

What causes androgen deficiency?

Accepted Answer

Androgen deficiency is caused by problems with the testicles, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus that disrupt testosterone production. Primary causes include testicular injury, infection, chemotherapy, or genetic conditions like Klinefelter syndrome. Secondary causes involve pituitary tumors, obesity, chronic illness, certain medications (especially opioids and steroids), or age-related decline in hormone production. Stress, poor sleep, and excessive alcohol consumption can also contribute to low testosterone levels.

Question 3

What is the best test for androgen deficiency?

Accepted Answer

The Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable and Total, LC/MS/MS test is the most important test for androgen deficiency because it measures all three forms of testosterone: total testosterone (all testosterone in your blood), free testosterone (immediately available and active), and bioavailable testosterone (free plus loosely bound testosterone that can be used by your body). This comprehensive assessment using highly accurate LC/MS/MS technology provides the complete picture doctors need to diagnose androgen deficiency and guide treatment decisions. Testing should be done in the morning between 7-10 AM when testosterone levels are naturally highest.

Question 4

When should I get tested for androgen deficiency?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent fatigue, decreased sex drive, difficulty achieving or maintaining erections, loss of muscle mass, increased body fat (especially around the abdomen), mood changes like depression or irritability, or reduced bone density. Men over 40 with these symptoms should consider testing, as testosterone naturally declines with age. You should also get tested if you have chronic conditions like diabetes, obesity, or sleep apnea, or if you take medications known to affect testosterone levels.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of androgen deficiency?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms of androgen deficiency include reduced sexual desire and erectile dysfunction, persistent fatigue and low energy, decreased muscle mass and strength, increased body fat particularly around the midsection, mood disturbances including depression and irritability, difficulty concentrating and memory problems, reduced bone density leading to increased fracture risk, hot flashes and sweating, sleep disturbances, thinning body and facial hair, and enlarged or tender breast tissue. Symptoms can develop gradually and may be mistaken for normal aging or stress.

Question 6

Who is at risk for androgen deficiency?

Accepted Answer

Men over 40 are at increased risk as testosterone levels naturally decline about 1% per year after age 30. Other risk factors include obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, chronic kidney or liver disease, HIV/AIDS, sleep apnea, chronic opioid use, corticosteroid medications, previous chemotherapy or radiation therapy, testicular injury or infection, pituitary disorders, excessive alcohol consumption, chronic stress, and genetic conditions like Klinefelter syndrome. Men with multiple risk factors have a significantly higher likelihood of developing androgen deficiency.

Question 7

What happens if androgen deficiency is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated androgen deficiency leads to progressive muscle loss and weakness, increased body fat and obesity, severe osteoporosis with heightened fracture risk, cardiovascular disease including heart attacks and strokes, type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance, persistent depression and anxiety, complete loss of libido and sexual function, cognitive decline and memory problems, chronic fatigue that impacts daily activities, and significantly reduced quality of life. Long-term testosterone deficiency also increases mortality risk and accelerates age-related decline in physical and mental health.

Question 8

Can androgen deficiency be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, androgen deficiency is diagnosed with a blood test that measures testosterone levels. The most accurate approach uses the Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable and Total, LC/MS/MS test, which provides comprehensive measurement of all testosterone forms. Blood should be drawn in the morning (7-10 AM) when levels peak naturally. A single low result should be confirmed with a second test on a different day, as testosterone levels can fluctuate. Your doctor will interpret results alongside your symptoms and medical history to make a definitive diagnosis.

Question 9

How is androgen deficiency treated?

Accepted Answer

Androgen deficiency is treated primarily with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) available as injections, gels, patches, or pellets implanted under the skin. Treatment choice depends on personal preference, lifestyle, and response to therapy. Lifestyle modifications including weight loss, regular exercise, improved sleep, stress reduction, and limiting alcohol also help optimize testosterone levels. Underlying conditions like sleep apnea or pituitary disorders must be addressed. Treatment requires ongoing monitoring with blood tests to ensure testosterone levels remain in the normal range and to watch for side effects.

Question 10

How can I prevent androgen deficiency?

Accepted Answer

While age-related decline cannot be completely prevented, you can maintain healthier testosterone levels by maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and regular exercise, especially strength training which naturally boosts testosterone. Get 7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly, manage stress through relaxation techniques or meditation, limit alcohol consumption, avoid smoking, treat sleep apnea if present, minimize use of opioids and other medications that suppress testosterone, eat a balanced diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and zinc, and stay physically active throughout life. Regular health screenings help identify and treat conditions that affect testosterone production.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with androgen deficiency?

Accepted Answer

While natural approaches cannot replace medical treatment for diagnosed androgen deficiency, certain strategies support healthy testosterone levels. Strength training and high-intensity interval exercise naturally boost testosterone production. Ensure adequate intake of zinc (found in oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds), vitamin D through sunlight or supplementation, and healthy fats from nuts, avocados, and olive oil. Reduce stress through meditation, yoga, or mindfulness practices. Optimize sleep quality by maintaining consistent sleep schedules and creating a dark, cool sleeping environment. Limit sugar and processed foods while increasing cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower. However, if blood tests confirm androgen deficiency, medical treatment is necessary.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Androgen Deficiency Blood Test

What is Androgen deficiency?

What causes androgen deficiency?

What is the best test for androgen deficiency?

When should I get tested for androgen deficiency?

References

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