SHBG
Sex hormone-binding globulin, or SHBG, is a protein that carries androgens — testosterone and DHT — and estrogen in the blood.
Why it matters: In females, providers typically use the free androgen index to check for high androgen levels, and that index starts with a blood test measuring total testosterone, free testosterone and SHBG. A provider compares total testosterone to SHBG to find the amount of androgen in the blood.
Source · Cleveland Clinic — what it is, why it matters
What is SHBG?
Sex hormone-binding globulin, or SHBG, is a protein that carries androgens — testosterone and DHT — and estrogen in the blood.
What might a high or low SHBG mean?
In females, providers typically use the free androgen index to check for high androgen levels, and that index starts with a blood test measuring total testosterone, free testosterone and SHBG. A provider compares total testosterone to SHBG to find the amount of androgen in the blood.
What is the typical reference range for SHBG?
The general-population reference range shown here is 18.3 – 54.1 nmol/L. Reference ranges describe the general population and are not a personal target — discuss your results with your physician.