Sex hormone binding globulin

ChemistryAlso known as: SHBG SerPl-mCncAlso known as: SHBG SerPl-sCncnmol/L

Measures the protein that binds and transports sex hormones in your blood.

Normal Range
20 – 50
nmol/L
Abnormal Levels
< 10 nmol/L
> 50 nmol/L
Specimen Type
Blood

Why This Biomarker Matters

SHBG levels influence hormone availability and metabolic health. Low SHBG is linked to insulin resistance and heart disease risk, making it valuable for metabolic assessment.

Optimal Ranges

Clinician-defined 4-point reference thresholds (nmol/L)

Default Range

10
20
40
50
Low
10 nmol/L
Borderline Low
20 nmol/L
Optimal
40 nmol/L
Borderline High
50 nmol/L

male

10
20
40
50
Low
10 nmol/L
Borderline Low
20 nmol/L
Optimal
40 nmol/L
Borderline High
50 nmol/L

female_default

20
30
50
60
Low
20 nmol/L
Borderline Low
30 nmol/L
Optimal
50 nmol/L
Borderline High
60 nmol/L

Overview

Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) is a protein produced by the liver that binds and transports sex hormones (testosterone and estrogen) throughout your body. SHBG levels affect how much hormone is freely available for your body to use. Low SHBG is associated with insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and increased cardiovascular risk, while elevated levels may indicate liver disease or certain medications. This test helps evaluate hormonal balance and metabolic health.

Technical Information (LOINC Codes)

Standardized laboratory codes for this biomarker

13967-5Primary
Sex hormone binding globulin [Moles/volume] in Serum or Plasma
nmol/L
2942-1
Sex hormone binding globulin [Mass/volume] in Serum or Plasma
ug/dL

Available Lab Tests

Order tests that measure this biomarker

Adrenal Complete

$340.56

Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG)

$34.60
Results in 1-3 business days

Testosterone Total and Free with Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) Test

$56.38
Results in 1-2 business days
Sex hormone binding globulin: Normal Range, Testing & Clinical Significance | Healos | Ltrl