SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)

Blood Sciences Test

Specimen

Serum

Units

nmol/L

Reference Range

Females:

SHBG :<50Y =32.4-128 FAI 0.30 – 5.62
SHBG: >50Y = 27.1-128 FAI 0.19 – 3.63

Males:

SHBG: <50Y = 18.3-54.8 FAI 35.0 – 92.6
SHBG: >50Y =20.6-76.7 FAI 24.3 – 72.1

Test Usage

SHBG is a serum globulin that binds testosterone and, to a lesser extent oestradiol. On its own, it has little diagnostic value but it is required when measuring the biologically active free testosterone fraction as distinct from the 98% of total testosterone which is bound and inactive.

SHBG is increased by: oestrogens, pregnancy, androgen deficiency, thyrotoxicosis, cirrhosis.

To calculate free testosterone, go to: http://www.issam.ch/freetesto.htm

***NEW CALIBRATION FROM 30^TH OCTOBER 2019***

SHBG concentration level (nmol/L)				Number Tested:	Mean bias (nmol/L):	Bias %
Low:	0.0	to	32.4	6	-3.58	-18.8
Mid:	32.4	to	128.0	20	-12.37	-21.2
High:	128	to	200.0	3	-19.97	-15.9

Due to an equipment upgrade and assay re-calibration, the results reported for SHBG may be up to 18% lower than those reported before 30/10/19, with a proportional increase in calculated free androgen index. Clinical cut-offs have not changed.

Availability

Local test

Turnaround Time

7 days

Can be added on to an existing request up to 4 days following sample receipt

Specimen Labelling Procedure