Approximately what percentage of testosterone is free in plasma?

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Multiple Choice

Approximately what percentage of testosterone is free in plasma?

Explanation:
Free testosterone is the small portion of testosterone in plasma that is not bound to proteins and can enter cells to exert effects. In adults, about 2-3% of the total testosterone is free. The rest is bound mainly to SHBG (tightly) and albumin (loosely). This binding keeps most testosterone inactive in the plasma, while the free fraction—though small—drives androgen activity. Changes in SHBG levels can shift the free testosterone even if total testosterone is similar, which is why clinicians often consider free or bioavailable testosterone in assessments.

Free testosterone is the small portion of testosterone in plasma that is not bound to proteins and can enter cells to exert effects. In adults, about 2-3% of the total testosterone is free. The rest is bound mainly to SHBG (tightly) and albumin (loosely). This binding keeps most testosterone inactive in the plasma, while the free fraction—though small—drives androgen activity. Changes in SHBG levels can shift the free testosterone even if total testosterone is similar, which is why clinicians often consider free or bioavailable testosterone in assessments.

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