Description
Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) is a protein that is produced by the liver. It binds tightly to the hormones testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and estradiol. In its bound state, SHBG transports these hormones in the blood. This test measures the level of SHBG in the blood and helps evaluate for testosterone deficiency or excess.
SHBG is ordered primarily when the total testosterone results do not seem to be consistent with clinical signs and symptoms: in men, this includes infertility, decreased sex drive, and erectile dysfunction in men; in women, this includes infertility, irregular menstrual periods, and excess facial and body hair. In many cases, health practitioners feel that the total testosterone, and perhaps free testosterone (as measured by a method called equilibrium dialysis), provides sufficient information.
Requirements: None
CPT Code: 84270
Walk-in or call 303-552-0657 to schedule an appointment.
