Testosterone is a hormone that plays critical roles in both men and women, influencing muscle mass, fertility, red blood cell production, and fat distribution. However, its levels are significantly higher in men than in women. The test is typically ordered to evaluate a variety of conditions. For men, it may be used to diagnose issues such as erectile dysfunction, infertility, or low libido. It could also be ordered if there are symptoms of low testosterone levels like reduced muscle mass, hair loss, or osteoporosis. For women, the test could be used when there are symptoms suggestive of high testosterone levels, such as irregular menstrual cycles, increased body and facial hair, or acne. These symptoms could indicate conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). There are two measures associated with testosterone tests: total testosterone, which accounts for the overall level of testosterone in the blood (including both bound and free testosterone), and free testosterone or the Free Testosterone Index (FTI), which measures the testosterone that is not bound to proteins and is available to cells. High FTI levels indicate elevated levels of active testosterone, which can lead to various health issues if in excess.