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Targeted Testing

Androstenedione Test

The hidden androgen — often elevated in PCOS when testosterone looks normal

$65
Results in 2-3 business days2,300+ collection centresNo GP referral needed

40–60%

of women with PCOS have elevated androstenedione contributing to androgen excess

Source: Azziz et al., JCEM 2009

Why This Test

Androstenedione sits at the crossroads of adrenal and gonadal androgen production — elevated levels can explain symptoms that testosterone alone misses. Androstenedione is an androgen precursor produced by both the adrenal glands and ovaries (in women) or testes (in men). It can be converted into testosterone and oestrogen. Elevated androstenedione is a common finding in PCOS, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and adrenal tumours. This test is often ordered as part of an androgen excess workup alongside testosterone, DHEA-S, and SHBG.

What This Test Measures

Androstenedione

Androstenedione is an androgen precursor produced by both the adrenal glands and ovaries (in women) or testes (in men). It can be converted into testosterone and oestrogen. Elevated androstenedione is a common finding in PCOS, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and adrenal tumours. This test is often ordered as part of an androgen excess workup alongside testosterone, DHEA-S, and SHBG.

Who May Benefit

  • Hirsutism (excess facial or body hair in women)
  • Acne, especially in adult women
  • Irregular or absent periods
  • PCOS investigation
  • Investigating androgen excess when testosterone is normal
  • Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) assessment
Sample Type
Blood (venous)
Fasting
Not required
Best Time
Morning preferred — adrenal androgen levels are typically higher in the morning; day 2–5 of cycle in women for baseline
Results
2-3 business days

Understanding Your Results

Below reference rangeLow androstenedione is uncommon outside of adrenal insufficiency — discuss with your healthcare practitioner if unexpected
Within reference range (lower)Within normal limits — sex and age-specific ranges apply
Within reference rangeReference ranges differ by sex and age — see your full report for lab-specific context
Above reference rangeElevated androstenedione may warrant further investigation of adrenal or ovarian androgen sources — discuss with your healthcare practitioner
Your results come with personalised context and next steps. If anything needs attention, we'll guide you through what it means and suggest discussing with your doctor.

Common Questions

Androstenedione is a precursor that the body converts into testosterone or oestrogen. Some people have androgen excess symptoms driven by androstenedione rather than elevated testosterone — which is why testing both can provide a more complete picture.

Yes. Androstenedione is often elevated in PCOS and is part of a comprehensive androgen excess workup alongside testosterone, SHBG, and DHEA-S.

Every 3-6 months when monitoring PCOS treatment or an adrenal condition. Otherwise, a baseline with a repeat if symptoms change or progress.

Related Resources

Important Information

This test provides health information for educational purposes. Results should be discussed with your healthcare practitioner. Not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

NATA-accredited · 2,300+ collection centres

Androstenedione
$65