Testosterone Tests for Males

Testosterone tests provide a wealth of information for doctors to determine a man's physical health. Doctors use these tests to check the physical status of men and boys alike. Many serious illnesses are linked to how well a male's body produces testosterone and men of all ages should check with their physicians if they believe that a problem exists.

Puberty

• While there is a variation of when puberty is to begin, sometimes there is a medical reason why it does not begin on time. Testosterone tests are often ordered in males when there is a evidence of delay in development. Symptoms of delayed puberty include the slow development of muscle mass, lack of deepening of the voice, little to no growth of body hair or the slow or delayed growth of testicles and penis. What causes this delay is usually the result of the testes not producing enough testosterone. Doctors may also order a testosterone test if a young boy exudes signs of puberty before 10 years old. These tests scans for tumors or congenital adrenal hyperplasia; two main causes of precocious puberty in boys.

Infertility and Sex

• Some men experience unnaturally high levels of estrogen. Testosterone naturally converts to estrogen, but when this occurrence is overactive, the result is not enough testosterone and an overabundance of estrogen in the body. High levels of estrogen in men trick the brain into thinking that enough estrogen is being made. The brain then slows the natural production of testosterone and the body is not able to function properly.

  Men who take testosterone tests to check this level may already be experiencing problems. Some of these problems include infertility, decreased sex drive and erectile dysfunction. Symptoms include lack of beard or body hair, decreased muscle mass and development of breast tissue; a condition titled gynecomastia.

Serious Health Problems

• Testosterone tests may also check for precursors to serious health conditions in men. Tumors, AIDS and HIV, testicular cancer and hypothalamus or pituitary disorders can all be determined by a blood testosterone test.

  With a serious medical condition, early detection is key. Men who think their testosterone levels may be too high or low should contact their doctor for a test as soon as possible.

Alcohol and Drugs

• A man may need to have a testosterone test if he has a prolonged use of alcohol and certain drugs. Alcoholism, as well as liver disease, may decrease testosterone levels; so can drugs like steroids. Other drugs like anticonvulsants, barbiturates and Clomiphene may also have an adverse effect on a man's testosterone levels. These drugs can increase testosterone levels.