II. Physiology

  1. Glycoprotein produced primarily in liver, as well as sertoli cells (Testes), Uterus, placenta, brain
  2. Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) binds 17 beta-hydroxysteriod Hormones: androgens (e.g. Testosterone) and Estrogen
  3. Transcortin, by contrast binds other steroid Hormones (Progesterone, Corticosteroids)

III. Interpretation: Normal Levels

  1. Male: 0.4 to 1.3 ug DHT/100 ml
  2. Female: 0.4 to 3.5 ug DHT/100 ml
  3. Pregnancy: 6.5 to 9.7 ug DHT/100 ml

IV. Causes: Increased SHBG (lower, unbound, Free Testosterone)

  1. Oral Contraceptives
  2. Pregnancy
  3. Hyperthyroidism
  4. Cirrhosis
  5. Anorexa nervosa (or other longterm low calorie intake)
  6. Advancing age
    1. See Androgen Decline in the Aging Male

V. Causes: Decreased SHBG (higher, unbound, Free Testosterone)

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