DHEA-Sulfate
Measures DHEA-sulfate levels to assess adrenal gland function and help diagnose hormonal imbalances.
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What this test measures
DHEAS stands for dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. DHEAS is mostly made in the adrenal glands, two small glands located above your kidneys. This includes cortisol, a hormone that helps with your immune system, and DHEAS, a steroid hormone. DHEAS is a type of androgen (male sex hormone), but it's found in both men and women. Smaller amounts of DHEAS are made in the testicles and ovaries. DHEAS plays an important role in making the male sex hormone testosterone and the female sex hormone estrogen. DHEAS helps with the development of male sexual characteristics at puberty and reproduction for both sexes.
Your adrenal glands make DHEA sulfate, a steroid hormone found in all sexes. Your body converts DHEAS into androgens (testosterone and androstenedione) and estrogen. Males make more testosterone, while females make more estrogen, but all sexes produce and use these hormones. DHEAS levels tend to peak around puberty and then naturally decline with age. Your DHEAS levels peak around puberty and then get lower as you age. Unlike many hormones that fluctuate throughout the day, DHEA-S levels remain relatively stable, making it an excellent biomarker for assessing adrenal function and overall hormonal health.
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Individuals with symptoms of hormone imbalances, including excess hair growth (hirsutism), severe acne, irregular menstrual periods, or fertility concerns
- Those experiencing unexplained fatigue, low energy, decreased sex drive, or other symptoms that may indicate adrenal dysfunction
- Women being evaluated for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other conditions causing elevated androgen levels
- Patients with suspected adrenal gland disorders, including those who may have adrenal tumors or congenital adrenal hyperplasia
- Individuals with early or delayed puberty requiring evaluation of adrenal function
- Those being monitored for Addison's disease, hypopituitarism, or other conditions affecting hormone production
What to expect
Preparation
No special preparation is necessary. However, tell your health care provider if you are taking any vitamins or supplements that contain DHEA or DHEA-sulfate. The test can be performed at any time of day since DHEA-sulfate levels remain stable throughout the day.
Sample Type
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm
Collection
A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 2-3 business days
Understanding your results
DHEA-sulfate test results help healthcare providers assess adrenal gland function and investigate potential hormonal imbalances. The interpretation of results depends on several factors including age, sex, and clinical symptoms. If your DHEAS levels are not normal, it may mean there is a problem with your adrenal glands or sex hormones (estrogen or testosterone). If your DHEAS levels are not normal, it may mean there is a problem with your adrenal glands or sex hormones (estrogen or testosterone).
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Males (18-29 years) | 80-560 µg/dL | Values vary by laboratory and testing method |
| Adult Females (18-29 years) | 35-430 µg/dL | Values vary by laboratory and testing method |
| Adults (30-39 years) | Males: 80-560 µg/dL, Females: 35-430 µg/dL | Levels begin to decline after age 30 |
| Adults (40+ years) | Progressively lower with advancing age | Normal age-related decline expected |
Reference ranges shown are general guidelines. Your lab report will include the specific reference range used by the laboratory that processed your sample, which is the authoritative range for interpreting your results.
What does a “Low” result mean?
Low levels of DHEAS also may require further testing. They can be a sign of problems including: Addison's disease. Pituitary adenomas, including hypopituitarism. If your results show low levels of DHEAS, it may be a sign of the following conditions: Addison disease. Addison disease is a disorder in which the adrenal glands are not able to make enough of certain hormones. Hypopituitarism, a condition in which the pituitary gland does not make enough of one or more of the pituitary hormones. Low levels of DHEAS can cause sexual dysfunction, such as low sex drives (libido), in all sexes. Men may experience erectile dysfunction. Low DHEA levels often present symptoms such as memory loss, fatigue, low libido, osteoporosis and erectile dysfunction in men. Low DHEA levels often present symptoms such as memory loss, fatigue, low libido, osteoporosis and erectile dysfunction in men.
What does a “High” result mean?
High levels of DHEAS may mean you need additional testing. They can indicate problems such as: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Cancerous or noncancerous adrenal tumors, including adrenocortical carcinoma. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Ovarian cancer. PCOS is one of the more common causes of elevated DHEA in women. Around 20 to 30% of women with PCOS have excess DHEA-S production from the adrenal glands, leading to hyperandrogenism or high androgen hormones, including testosterone and the potent androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Elevated levels may also be associated with symptoms such as abnormal menstruation, including amenorrhea (missed periods). Excessive hair growth (hirsutism). Hair loss in women. Infertility. Severe acne. It's important to note that additional testing is typically needed to determine the specific cause of elevated DHEA-sulfate levels.
Privacy & confidentiality
All test orders are authorized and results reviewed by an independent, board-certified physician who is not the patient's personal doctor. When individuals order DHEA-sulfate testing through LevelPanel, complete confidentiality is maintained throughout the entire process. Test results are <u>not reported to your doctor</u> unless you specifically choose to share them, ensuring that hormone testing remains completely private. The results are <u>not part of your medical records</u> and will not appear on insurance statements or Explanation of Benefits (EOB), providing peace of mind for those who prefer to keep their hormonal health information confidential. This private testing approach is particularly valuable for individuals who want to monitor their adrenal function or investigate hormonal concerns without involving their primary healthcare provider initially. Whether someone is experiencing symptoms like fatigue, irregular periods, or other hormonal imbalances, they can obtain comprehensive DHEA-sulfate testing with complete discretion. The secure online platform ensures that sensitive health information remains protected, and individuals maintain full control over who has access to their hormonal health data.
Frequently asked questions
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$69Often tested together since DHEA-sulfate converts to testosterone and both are important androgens
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View TestComprehensive Hormone Panel
$220DHEA-sulfate is typically included in comprehensive panels for evaluating hormonal imbalances
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CPT Code: 82627
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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