Excess testosterone can be associated with increased body hair, acne, mood fluctuations, aggression, reduced sperm count or infertility, hypertension (high blood pressure), and possible heart or liver complications.
Naturally occurring high testosterone levels are uncommon. Elevated testosterone levels are more often linked to anabolic steroid use.
In males, raised testosterone levels may indicate testicular or adrenal gland disorders. These findings are generally treated as significant and are often reviewed further to clarify the cause.
In women, elevated testosterone levels may be linked to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or problems affecting the ovaries or adrenal glands. These findings are often reviewed further to clarify the cause.
High free testosterone levels may be expected in people taking testosterone supplements, but interpretation can be complex because multiple factors can influence testosterone levels.
A high level is typically shared with the clinician who requested the blood test or with a GP.