Men's Hormone Panel — Expanded
This comprehensive panel measures seven key hormones that affect men's energy, libido, mood, muscle mass, and overall vitality.
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What this test measures
This comprehensive panel provides a complete picture of male hormone health by measuring seven interconnected biomarkers. The panel includes total testosterone, free testosterone, bioavailable testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), albumin, estradiol, and prolactin. Together, these markers reveal not just testosterone production, but how effectively hormones are working at the tissue level and whether other factors may be affecting hormonal balance.
Total testosterone measures overall production, while free testosterone represents the unbound, biologically active fraction that drives muscle synthesis, mood, and energy regulation. Only about 2-3% of circulating testosterone remains free, with most bound to SHBG and albumin. Only free and albumin-bound fractions are considered "bioavailable" — they can actually slip into cells and do work. If SHBG is high, total testosterone can look fine while free testosterone is low. The panel also measures estradiol, which men produce when testosterone is converted to estrogen in body tissues, and prolactin, a pituitary hormone that can suppress testosterone when elevated.
What's included
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Men experiencing decreased energy, fatigue, or feeling less motivated than usual
- Those noticing changes in libido, sexual function, or difficulty with erections
- Men concerned about changes in muscle mass, strength, or body composition
- Those experiencing mood changes, irritability, or difficulty concentrating
- Men with sleep problems or feeling less recovered after rest
- Those wanting to establish baseline hormone levels before starting any optimization programs
- Men over 30 who want to monitor age-related hormonal changes proactively
What to expect
Preparation
No fasting required, but morning collection (7-10 AM) is strongly recommended since testosterone levels are highest in the early morning. Avoid vigorous exercise 48 hours before testing as it can temporarily affect prolactin levels.
Sample Type
A standard blood draw from a vein in your arm, similar to any routine lab test
Collection
Visit any Quest or LabCorp location with your lab order. Bring a valid photo ID. The blood draw takes just a few minutes.
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 1-3 business days and will be sent to your secure online portal
Understanding your results
Standard laboratory ranges for total testosterone typically span 300-1000 ng/dL, but optimal functional levels for energy, muscle mass, and cognitive performance tend toward the upper half. Reference ranges are population averages — not optimal targets. Your results will show each hormone level alongside the specific reference range used by the laboratory that processed your sample. Individual numbers mean little in isolation — the real value comes from reading patterns. Total testosterone plus free testosterone plus SHBG together reveal how effectively hormones are functioning at the tissue level.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult men - Total Testosterone | 300-1000 ng/dL | Morning levels are 50% higher than evening |
| Adult men - Free Testosterone | 8.7-25.1 pg/mL | Calculated from total T, SHBG, and albumin |
| Adult men - SHBG | 10-57 nmol/L | Higher with age, lower with insulin resistance |
| Adult men - Estradiol | 7-43 pg/mL | Essential for bone health and libido |
| Adult men - Prolactin | 3-20 ng/mL | Higher levels can suppress testosterone |
Reference ranges shown are general guidelines. Your lab report will include the specific reference range used by the laboratory that processed your sample, which is the authoritative range for interpreting your results.
What does a “Low” result mean?
Low testosterone in men results in partial or complete degrees of hypogonadism, characterized by changes in male secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive function. Very low estradiol in men can lead to bone loss, increased body fat, and low libido. Low SHBG may indicate insulin resistance or metabolic dysfunction.
What does a “High” result mean?
Elevated estradiol levels in men may result in breast tissue growth, infertility, or erectile dysfunction, and can blunt testosterone's effects. High prolactin may reduce testosterone and libido, and in men can affect how the testicles work causing lower sex drive and erectile dysfunction. Elevated SHBG can make total testosterone levels appear normal while free testosterone remains functionally low.
Privacy & confidentiality
Your hormone test results are completely confidential and delivered securely to your personal online portal. Results are never shared with employers, insurance companies, or anyone else without your explicit consent. Many men choose private testing to understand their hormonal health discreetly and take control of their wellness journey.
Frequently asked questions
Related tests
CPT Code: 84403, 84402, 84270, 82040, 82670, 84144
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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Not sure if this is the right test? Contact our care team for guidance.