Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)
CPT Code: 84270
Order Code: C326
ABN Requirement: No
Synonyms: SHBG
Specimen: Serum
Volume: 0.5 mL
Minimum Volume: 0.3 mL
Container: Gel-barrier tube (SST, Tiger Top)
Collection:
- Collect and label sample according to standard protocols.
- Gently invert tube 5 times immediately after draw. DO NOT SHAKE.
- Allow blood to clot 30 minutes.
- Centrifuge for 10 minutes.
Special Instructions: Samples should not be taken from patients receiving therapy with high biotin doses (>5 mg/day) until at least 8 hours following the last biotin administration.
Transport: Store serum at 2°C to 8°C after collection and ship the same day per packaging instructions provided with the Cleveland HeartLab shipping box.
Stability:
Ambient (15-25°C): 5 days
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days
Frozen (-20°C): 1 month
Deep Frozen (-70°C): 1 month
Causes for Rejection: Specimens other than serum; improper labeling; samples not stored properly; samples older than stability limits
Methodology: Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA)
Turn Around Time: 1 to 3 days
Reference Range:
| Sex/Age | Reference Range, nmol/L |
| Males, 20-49 years | 16.5-55.9 |
| Males, ≥ 50 years | 19.3 -76.4 |
| Female, 21-49 years | 24.6-122 |
| Female, ≥50 years | 17.3-125 |
Intended Use: The sex hormone binding globulin test may be used to determine an individual’s free androgen levels, to evaluate infertility in males, and for the diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome in women. The test may also have utility for the diagnosis and follow-up of insulin resistance, as well as cardiovascular and type 2 diabetes risk, particularly in women.
Additional Information: Children of both sexes usually have high SHBG concentrations, which decrease after puberty. The decrease is more rapid in males. Levels are stable during adulthood, but in elderly men SHBG concentrations increase at the same time total testosterone levels decrease. SHBG concentrations decrease in postmenopausal women in parallel with testosterone and estrogen levels. SHBG levels are increased during pregnancy, and 10-20% of the population, are carriers of a genetic variant which slows SHBG degradation, leading to elevated SHBG levels.
The CPT codes provided are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payer being billed.