Free Androgen Index (FAI) Test
51+ booked in last 3 daysFree Androgen Index FAI Serum Test Overview
Testosterone is a hormone synthesized by both males and females. It is responsible for organ development and various sexual functions. Sex Hormone Binding globulin [SHBG] is protein that attaches to the sex hormones and controls their utilization in the body. A free androgen index (FAI) is a ratio of testosterone to SHBG [Sex Hormone Binding Globulin] which helps in identifying excessive androgen activity in the body.
CREATED BY : Dr.Shibani R Medical Writer, Medical Affairs
Reasons for Undergoing the Free Androgen Index
The Free Androgen Index (FAI) test is a crucial diagnostic tool for assessing hormonal imbalances and related conditions. There are several reasons why one might undergo this test:
- To diagnose hyperandrogenism, which can manifest as symptoms like hirsutism, acne, and male pattern baldness in women
- To identify Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a common endocrine disorder characterised by irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, and excess androgen levels
- To diagnose other androgenic disorders, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, androgen-secreting tumours, or Cushing syndrome
- To assess the bioavailability of testosterone in the body, which is essential for understanding various metabolic and reproductive health issues
List of Parameters Considered During the Free Androgen Index
The Free Androgen Index test measures two key parameters to provide insights into hormonal balance:
- Total Testosterone: This measures the total amount of testosterone in the blood, including both bound and free fractions. High levels may indicate hyperandrogenism, while low levels could suggest hypogonadism or other hormonal imbalances.
- Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG): SHBG is a protein that binds to sex hormones, including testosterone, making them biologically inactive. SHBG levels affect the bioavailability of testosterone; lower SHBG leads to higher free testosterone, and vice versa.
The FAI is calculated using the formula: FAI = 100 × (Total Testosterone/SHBG), providing an estimate of the biologically active (free) testosterone in the blood.
Home Collection for Free Androgen Index Near You
Metropolis Healthcare offers a convenient home sample collection option for taking the Free Androgen Index Test, ensuring comfort, safety, and accuracy. A trained phlebotomist will visit your doorstep to collect the blood sample, maintaining higher standards of sample handling without compromising testing precision.
You can expect timely and reliable results, as Metropolis Healthcare is committed to making quality diagnostic solutions accessible from the comfort of your home.
Free Androgen Index (FAI) Test Price
Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostics centre and pathology lab in India equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies that provides the Free Androgen Index (FAI) Test with a clear pricing structure.
The Free Androgen Index (FAI) Test Price in Mumbai is ₹ 3,410 .
We are committed to deliver accurate and quality results from the best labs in India with complete transparency regarding test cost and turnaround time. No matter where you are, we strive to offer patients high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAI is used to identify excessive androgen activity and thus useful in the evaluation of mild disorders of androgen metabolism. It is also used to diagnose other hormonal disorders.
The test measures the ratio of testosterone to SHBG in the blood.
This test requires a blood sample. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in vacutainer.
A high free androgen index value indicates that there is too much biologically active testosterone in the blood. This may indicate hormonal imbalance. Low-free androgen index indicates testosterone deficiency. Results should be further evaluated in consultation with the treating clinician.
The Free Androgen Index (FAI) is a ratio that estimates the amount of biologically active testosterone in the blood by dividing the total testosterone level by the sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) level and multiplying by 100.
The FAI test detects the level of biologically active testosterone in the blood, helping to identify conditions associated with abnormal androgen levels, such as hyperandrogenism, PCOS, and other androgen-related disorders.
The FAI test reports indicate the ratio of total testosterone to SHBG, providing an estimate of the free testosterone levels. High FAI values can indicate hyperandrogenism, while low values might suggest hypogonadism.
Yes, hormonal imbalances detected by the FAI test can be treated. Treatment options depend on the underlying condition and may include hormonal therapies, lifestyle changes, and medications to manage symptoms and restore hormonal balance.
The benefits of the FAI test include early diagnosis of hyperandrogenism and related conditions, monitoring the effectiveness of treatments for hormonal imbalances, and providing insights into cardiometabolic health, as FAI levels are linked to insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and systemic inflammation.
Yes, women can undergo the FAI test, particularly when there is a suspicion of hyperandrogenism or conditions like PCOS. The test is more accurate for assessing free testosterone levels in women than in men.
The FAI test is a blood test and carries minimal risks associated with blood sampling, such as bruising, infection, or temporary discomfort at the puncture site.
The FAI test helps in diagnosing conditions such as PCOS, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, androgen-secreting tumors, Cushing syndrome, hyperandrogenism, and hypogonadism in certain contexts.
Yes, certain medications can affect the FAI test results. Hormonal contraceptives can elevate SHBG levels, while glucocorticoids can suppress SHBG production, thereby affecting the FAI. Other medications and chronic conditions can also impact SHBG and androgen levels.
No specific preparation, such as fasting, is typically required before taking the Free Androgen Index test. However, it is important to follow any instructions given by your healthcare provider.
Several factors can affect FAI test results, including the time of day, hormonal intake (e.g., contraceptives, glucocorticoids), obesity and insulin resistance, chronic conditions (e.g., HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, liver disease), age, genetics, and ethnicity.
Free Androgen Index test results are usually available after 8 hours, although this can vary based on the healthcare provider and the time/day the sample is collected and processed.
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