Apr 15, 2025
Free Testosterone vs SHBG: Key Differences Explained
Compare Free Testosterone and SHBG to learn which marker is more relevant for health assessment.
Why Compare Free Testosterone and SHBG?
Comparing Free Testosterone and SHBG is crucial because they are often used to assess similar yet distinct health conditions. Understanding their differences helps in selecting the right test and interpreting the results accurately.
Free Testosterone vs SHBG: Which Biomarker Matters?
Free Testosterone and SHBG are essential biomarkers used to evaluate different health conditions. Knowing when and how to interpret these biomarkers can significantly impact clinical decision-making.
Quick Comparison Table:
Biomarker | Purpose | Ideal Range | When to Test | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Measures bioavailable testosterone | 5-21 ng/dL | Assess androgen status | Free form is biologically active | |
Binds to sex hormones | 10-57 nmol/L | Assess free hormone levels | Regulates availability of sex hormones |
Key Takeaways:
SHBG controls the availability of free testosterone by binding to it.
High SHBG can reduce free testosterone even when total levels appear normal.
Testing both reveals how much hormone is truly active and usable.
Related Testing Panels:
Expert-Backed Reads:
Free Testosterone Health Insights
Related Medical Symptoms:
Symptoms related to Free Testosterone