Falsely elevated testosterone due to heterophile antibodies.

Abstract

Falsely elevated testosterone is a rare phenomenon that may result from heterophile antibodies. Similar to patients with heterophile antibodies for β-hCG, incorrect management may result in unnecessary testing or therapy. A previously healthy postmenopausal woman presented with a falsely elevated total testosterone level due to interference consistent with heterophile antibodies, with subsequent normal levels detected by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Asymptomatic patients may present with an elevated hormone level due to heterophile antibody interference. Molecular studies for hormone levels can assist greatly when falsely elevated levels are suspected, but these tests are costly and time-intensive.