Testosterone – Equine
Testosterone testing in horses is a diagnostic tool used to assess reproductive and endocrine health, particularly in stallions and suspected cryptorchid (retained testicle) cases. Testosterone, a steroid hormone primarily produced by the testes, plays a crucial role in male reproductive behavior, libido, and secondary sexual characteristics. Measurement of testosterone levels provides valuable insights into testicular function, reproductive capability, and endocrine disorders in equines. This test is particularly useful for diagnosing cryptorchidism in male horses that exhibit stallion-like behavior despite being gelded. Elevated testosterone levels suggest the presence of functional testicular tissue, distinguishing cryptorchid stallions from geldings. Testosterone testing is also valuable in evaluating stallions with subfertility, poor libido, or abnormal reproductive performance. Additionally, it aids in monitoring the hormonal status of breeding stallions to optimize reproductive management.
Test name
Testosterone – Equine
Test Code
E161
Section
Endocrinology
Species
Equine
Specimen
2 ml Serum
Collection Guidelines
- Collect an adequate amount of blood in a plain red-top tube or serum separator tube (yellow-top tube). Allow it to clot at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes before separation.
- Centrifuge to separate the serum. Transfer the clear serum into a new, leak-proof plain red-top tube and label it as “serum.”
- Excessively hemolyzed samples are not suitable for this test.
- Unspun samples will not be accepted.
- Refrigerate sample at 4oC until shipment.
Turnaround time
14-21 days
Packing Instructions
Label each sample with the animal’s name and a unique identifier, using a permanent marker or a secure adhesive label. Ensure the submittal form is completed with the animal’s information and relevant medical history.
References
- McDonnell, S.M., et al. “Testosterone Dynamics in Stallions: Diagnostic Applications and Clinical Insights.” Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 2021.
- Hinchcliff, K.W., et al. “Endocrine Diagnostics in Equine Medicine: The Role of Testosterone Testing.” Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice, 2022.
- Schott, H.C., et al. “Advances in Reproductive Hormone Testing for Stallions: Clinical Utility of Testosterone Measurements.” Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation, 2023.
