The diagnostic procedure for AD includes a comprehensive medical history, a physical examination and laboratory tests. The medical history will include a discussion of childhood development, questions about fertility, established testicular abnormalities, exposure to medications or occupational toxins, and recent changes in sexual functions. Questions will also be asked to ascertain the onset and severity of many of the previously mentioned symptoms.
The physical examination will include palpation of the testes to check for volume and consistency, assessment of secondary sexual characteristics such as body hair distribution, musculature and breast size. There will often be a digital rectal examination, particularly in men 50 and older, to check prostate size.
Laboratory tests will be conducted to measure testosterone levels as well as other hormones such as LH and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). Testosterone is released in pulses at specific intervals during the day. Experts recommend that blood samples be taken between 8 and 10 a.m. on two separate days. Only when the levels of these hormones are determined and evaluated in the context of physical symptoms can a reliable diagnosis of AD be made.
