Testosterone measurement

I am confused about the figures quoted for measurement of testosterone in blood. I have for 8 years suffered just about every symptom associated with low testosterone. My specialist said that after 3 tests, my testosterone levels were 7.3, 10.3 and 8.5, all taken at 0830hrs. He says they are low and low normal, but is not concerned as testosterone fluctuates. He is an Endocrinologist. Are these figures low, and would I benefit from a trial of testosterone. I am concerned about the Prostrate cancer link. All other extensive tests including CAT scan were normal.

Hi Martin,<br> Welcome to the forum. <br> <br> The normal range for total testosterone is 300 - 1000 ng/dl. <br> <br> If the testosterone level determined through a blood test is found to be extremely low and your doctor feels that developing an exact clinical diagnosis is important based on the physical exam and patient history, blood tests for FSH, LH and/or prolactin may be ordered. Results of these tests can provide a more complete picture of a man's hormonal status. <br> <br> You might want to read the complete article about "Diagnosing Andropause" here:<br> <br> <a href="http://www.seekwellness.com/andropause/testosterone.htm#diagnosing" target="_blank">http://www.seekwellness.com/andropause/testosterone.htm#diagnosing</a><br> <br> This should help you discuss your options with your doctor.<br> <br>

[CDC]

I have been taking Androgel for a number of years and I am currently dealing with a perplexing issue.

For all past times, I have had the standard blood test to chart my free hormone levels. I tended to be on the low side and my doctor would gradually increase the dosage.

Then last year I went to a different medical group and they had my hormone tested by saliva. I got tested three different times over an eight month period. My free testosterone was higher then the upper readable levels every time. Two weeks after my last saliva test, I had a blood test done on both the free and bound testosterone levels. They showed I had extremely low levels.

I did some research on the net and found this paper:
Testing: Saliva Vs. Blood | Too Late Schmart | August 2003

It seems that blood testing (testing only the separated serum/plasma) may not be the correct procedure for testing hormone levels in individual who take hormone supplements because the body processes it differently then internally produced hormones.

You may want to get a saliva test done to see if the hormone levels register correctly with the blood test.

I found out from a pharmacist with the drug maker of Androgel, that they did all there drug testing with blood (serum) samples. I wonder now if they would of gotten different results if some participants had their hormone levels checked via saliva or the red blood cells (non serum) were checked for testosterone levels.

Anyone have something similar happen to them or maybe a medical professional can shed some more light?

Cheers,

CDC