DHEA Sulfate (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate)

The DHEA Sulfate test measures the level of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) in the blood. DHEA-S is a hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands and serves as a precursor to male and female sex hormones, including testosterone and estrogen. This test helps evaluate adrenal gland function and diagnose hormone-related disorders.

1. What Is DHEA Sulfate?

• DHEA-S is a sulfated form of DHEA, making it more stable and easier to measure in the blood.

• It is one of the most abundant circulating steroid hormones and is involved in the production of androgens and estrogens.

• DHEA-S levels naturally decline with age and can be influenced by adrenal or pituitary disorders.

2. Why Is the DHEA-S Test Performed?

This test is used to:

• Evaluate adrenal gland function.

• Diagnose adrenal tumors, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

• Investigate signs of excess androgen production (e.g., hirsutism, acne, irregular periods).

• Help determine the cause of early puberty or delayed puberty in children.

3. DHEA-S Reference Ranges

• Reference ranges vary by age and sex. Typical adult values:

  - Men: 280 – 640 µg/dL

  - Women: 65 – 380 µg/dL

• Levels are highest in early adulthood and decline with age.

4. How to Interpret DHEA-S Results

🔹 Elevated DHEA-S:

• May suggest adrenal tumors, PCOS, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

• Can also be caused by certain medications or supplements containing DHEA.

🔹 Low DHEA-S:

• May indicate adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease) or hypopituitarism.

• Levels naturally decline with age.

5. What Can Affect DHEA-S Levels?

• Age and sex (natural decline with age)

• Adrenal gland health and hormone production

• Pituitary function (regulates adrenal activity)

• Medications (e.g., glucocorticoids, DHEA supplements, insulin)

• Stress or chronic illness

6. How Is the Test Performed?

• A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in the morning.

• No special preparation is typically required unless advised by your provider.

7. When to See a Doctor

🚨 Contact your healthcare provider if you:

• Show symptoms of hormone imbalance, such as irregular periods, hair loss, acne, or infertility.

• Have abnormal DHEA-S levels that may indicate adrenal or pituitary disorders.

• Are undergoing evaluation for early or delayed puberty.

🔹 Key Takeaways

✅ DHEA-S is a stable hormone marker used to assess adrenal and hormonal health.

✅ Elevated levels may indicate adrenal overactivity or androgen excess.

✅ Low levels may be linked to adrenal insufficiency or aging. Interpretation depends on clinical context.