Men's Hormone Test Panel — Expanded

About this test

This expanded panel provides a detailed evaluation of male hormonal health by adding free testosterone, thyroid hormones, estradiol, and prolactin to the core markers. It's appropriate for men with significant or complex hormonal symptoms, those being evaluated for fertility, or those who want a thorough picture before starting or adjusting hormone therapy.

The additional markers in this panel help identify nuanced issues — such as elevated estrogen, elevated prolactin (which suppresses testosterone), or thyroid imbalance — that the basic panel alone would miss.

Components

• Testosterone (Total): Overall testosterone level in the blood, including both protein-bound and free fractions.
• Free Testosterone: The biologically active portion of testosterone not bound to SHBG or albumin. Some men have low free testosterone even when total testosterone is normal — and free testosterone is what actually drives effects in tissues.
• Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH): First-line thyroid screen. Thyroid dysfunction can significantly affect energy, weight, libido, and mood in men.
• Free T4: The active thyroid hormone measured directly in the blood. Checked when TSH is abnormal to confirm whether thyroid treatment is needed.
• DHEA-S: An adrenal precursor hormone that contributes to testosterone production. Low DHEA-S is associated with fatigue and loss of vitality, particularly in middle-aged and older men.
• SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin): The protein that holds testosterone in an inactive state. High SHBG effectively reduces available testosterone. Understanding SHBG is essential to interpreting total testosterone correctly.
• Estradiol: A form of estrogen present in all men (converted from testosterone). Elevated estradiol in men can cause breast tissue growth, water retention, reduced libido, and mood changes — and is a common issue with aging and obesity.
• Prolactin: A hormone normally associated with lactation, but produced in small amounts in men. Elevated prolactin suppresses testosterone and can cause sexual dysfunction and gynecomastia (breast tissue growth). High prolactin warrants evaluation for a pituitary gland problem.

Who is this test for?

This panel is a good fit for men who have already completed basic hormone testing and want a more complete picture, or for those working with a healthcare provider to investigate more complex hormonal symptoms. It is also appropriate for men considering or currently using hormone therapy who need broader monitoring.