Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)

SHBG is a test to measure the Sex Hormones Binding Globulin. Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is a protein synthesized by the liver. It helps transport hormones like testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and estradiol in the blood in their biologically inactive forms. When your SHBG levels fluctuate, the number of hormones available for your body’s use can get affected. SHBG monitors and controls how much of the three hormones testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and estradiol need to be delivered to the body’s tissues. In the absence of the sex hormone-binding globulin, these hormones will not be sent to their respective body tissues for use. Testosterone excess or a lack of it can cause problems in the individual. The sex hormone-binding globulin is essential for adequate and proper use of testosterone. The Sex hormone-binding Globulin Test measures the level of sex hormone-binding globulin in the blood and helps evaluate testosterone deficiency and testosterone excess. Although the sex hormone-binding globulin attaches itself to all these three hormones, the Sex hormone-binding Globulin Test is used to measure testosterone alone. Studies show that the Sex hormone-binding Globulin Test helps monitor children with possible attributes of metabolic syndrome. Research also states that the Sex hormone-binding Globulin Test assesses ischaemic stroke risk in postmenopausal women.