Testosterone measured by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LCMS) is the most accurate and reliable method of testosterone quantification available. Standard immunoassay testosterone tests — used in most routine blood panels — can be significantly affected by interfering substances including SHBG, albumin, cross-reacting hormones, and high-dose biotin supplementation.
LCMS eliminates these sources of error by directly measuring the specific molecular weight of testosterone, providing results that are particularly valuable at low concentrations — such as in women, children, and hypogonadal men — or when monitoring testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). It is the reference method endorsed by clinical endocrinology guidelines when precision is required.
FAQs
Why choose LCMS testosterone over standard testosterone?
LCMS eliminates analytical interference and is significantly more accurate at low concentrations (below 5 nmol/L). For women, children, hypogonadal men, and people on TRT, LCMS provides the precision needed for reliable clinical decisions.
Does LCMS require different blood collection?
The blood collection process is the same. LCMS is a laboratory measurement method. Specify LCMS when ordering to ensure the correct analytical method is used.
Is LCMS testosterone routinely available?
LCMS testosterone is available through specialist endocrinology laboratories and some private pathology services in Australia. Standard immunoassay is more widely available but less accurate at low concentrations.
Should I stop biotin before testosterone LCMS testing?
Biotin interferes with immunoassay testosterone, not LCMS. However, stopping high-dose biotin 2-3 days before any hormonal testing is good practice for situations where immunoassay methods may also be used.
