question from a user
If low T is symptom driven, then what is the purpose of having a “range”?
AlphaMD's Answer
Testosterone ranges were created using population studies, using thousands of men. They just randomly tested men, whether they had any symptoms or not, and said "these are the average levels of testosterone in men". They did not make distinctions based on age and they did not exclude men with potential hypogonadal symptoms.
With that in mind, ranges are almost entirely useless in the diagnosis of hypogonadism.
The range is very very broad. Normal testosterone, based on most laboratory criteria is 250-1000. Some labs use 300-1200. Some say that the average is 350-900. The fact that there is no consensus on what is "normal", proves that there is actually no normal.
Also, a man may be blessed with a high normal testosterone (say his normal is 1000. But then he starts feeling bad, and he goes to the doctor and sees that his testosterone level is 550. The doctor will say "Your testosterone is completely fine". Well, actually, no it isnt. His level is half what it should be. This is known as relative hypogonadism.
So long story short, any good medical provider will treat hypogonadal symptoms regardless of level. If their symptoms resolve on TRT, then they had hypogonadism. If their symptoms dont resolve, then their symptoms are from something else and they can stop TRT and explore other options.
Related Questions
Do you optimize T even if that puts it above the current reference range, or do you merely get it in range?...
The values are far less important than the symptoms and goals of the patient, they are a great guidepost as where to start and to review if there's some kind of issue with side effects or lack of prog... See Full Answer
How do you look at "dialing in" doses and other aspects of a protocol for somebody who is generally responding to TRT well? The only clear restriction...
In medical school, they often say "Treat the patient, not the numbers." In my experience, in no other field of medicine is this more true than in treating hypogonadism. The most important aspect when ... See Full Answer
With T fluctuations being so drastic from any given hour, day, week, how can you really know if someone has a hormonal imbalance?...
That is why symptoms are king, and numbers should be used as a guide post for what treatment is appropriate and how responsive someone is. Your 500 and my 500 will feel completely different to each of... See Full Answer
Ready to get answers?
Ask your own question today.
Get $30 off your first month’s order
Enter your email address now to receive $30 off your first month’s cost, other discounts, and additional information about TRT.
Legal Disclaimer
This website is a repository of publicly available information and is not intended to form a physician-patient relationship with any individual. The content of this website is for informational purposes only. The information presented on this website is not intended to take the place of your personal physician's advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Discuss this information with your own physician or healthcare provider to determine what is right for you. All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. The information contained herein is presented in summary form only and intended to provide broad consumer understanding and knowledge. The information should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of a visit, phone or telemedicine call, consultation or advice of your physician or other healthcare provider. Only a qualified physician in your state can determine if you qualify for and should undertake treatment.