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DHEA - Dehydroepiandrostenedione

Reproductive
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Report in 120Hrs

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No Fasting Required

Details

Measures adrenal androgen DHEA.

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DHEA - Dehydroepiandrostenedione Test Information Guide

  • Why is it done?
    • Measures levels of DHEA, a hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands that serves as a precursor to testosterone and estrogen
    • Evaluates adrenal gland function and production of sex hormones
    • Investigates symptoms of hormonal imbalance including abnormal puberty, irregular menstruation, infertility, and sexual dysfunction
    • Diagnoses adrenal disorders such as Addison's disease, Cushing's syndrome, and adrenal hyperplasia
    • Assesses polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and other reproductive endocrine disorders
    • Evaluates delayed or precocious puberty in children and adolescents
    • Monitors treatment response in patients with adrenal or reproductive disorders
  • Normal Range
    • Reference ranges vary by age, sex, and laboratory methodology
    • Adult Males: typically 180-890 ng/dL (6.24-30.88 nmol/L)
    • Adult Females: typically 130-980 ng/dL (4.51-34.01 nmol/L)
    • Children: significantly lower values, varying with developmental stage
    • Units of measurement: nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) or nanomoles per liter (nmol/L)
    • Normal results indicate adequate adrenal function and appropriate hormone production
    • Low values suggest adrenal insufficiency or dysfunction
    • High values may indicate adrenal hyperplasia, Cushing's syndrome, or hormone-secreting tumors
    • Note: Each laboratory establishes its own reference ranges; consult specific lab for exact values
  • Interpretation
    • Low DHEA Levels: May indicate Addison's disease, adrenal insufficiency, aging-related decline, chronic illness, or stress; can present with fatigue, low libido, and mood changes
    • High DHEA Levels: May suggest adrenal hyperplasia (congenital or acquired), Cushing's syndrome, PCOS, adrenal tumors, or androgen-secreting tumors; often accompanied by hirsutism and irregular menses in females
    • Age-related variations: DHEA levels peak in the 20s-30s and gradually decline with age; elderly patients naturally have lower levels
    • Sex-specific considerations: Elevated levels in females suggest androgen excess; elevated levels in males may indicate adrenal disease
    • Factors affecting results: Time of day (shows diurnal variation with peak in morning), stress levels, medications (corticosteroids, estrogen), illness, sleep disruption, and extreme exercise
    • Clinical significance: Results must be interpreted with clinical symptoms, other hormone levels, imaging studies, and ACTH stimulation tests for definitive diagnosis
  • Associated Organs
    • Primary organs involved: Adrenal glands (zona reticularis), central nervous system (hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis)
    • Conditions associated with abnormal DHEA:
    • Addison's disease (adrenal insufficiency)
    • Cushing's syndrome
    • Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)
    • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
    • Adrenal tumors and hormone-secreting neoplasms
    • Ectopic ACTH syndrome
    • Potential complications of abnormal DHEA levels:
    • Infertility and reproductive dysfunction
    • Metabolic complications including obesity and insulin resistance
    • Virilization (development of male characteristics in females)
    • Bone loss and osteoporosis with prolonged deficiency
    • Cardiovascular complications from untreated hormonal imbalance
  • Follow-up Tests
    • For low DHEA levels:
    • ACTH stimulation test to assess adrenal reserve and function
    • Cortisol levels (morning and afternoon) to evaluate adrenal insufficiency
    • ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) measurement
    • Dexamethasone suppression test if Cushing's disease suspected
    • Thyroid function tests (TSH, free T4)
    • For high DHEA levels:
    • 17-hydroxyprogesterone to diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia
    • Testosterone and androstenedione levels
    • Cortisol levels and dexamethasone suppression test for Cushing's syndrome
    • Pelvic ultrasound or adrenal imaging (CT/MRI) to detect tumors
    • LH and FSH for evaluation of PCOS
    • General follow-up recommendations:
    • Repeat DHEA testing every 6-12 months for chronic conditions requiring ongoing monitoring
    • Metabolic panel including glucose and lipid levels
    • Bone density testing (DXA scan) if deficiency is prolonged
  • Fasting Required?
    • Fasting: No, fasting is not required for DHEA testing
    • Timing considerations: Blood should be drawn in the morning (between 6-8 AM) when DHEA levels are at their peak, as the hormone exhibits diurnal variation
    • Medications to avoid:
    • Corticosteroids (can suppress DHEA levels) - discuss with physician if currently taking
    • Estrogen replacement therapy or oral contraceptives - may affect results
    • Patient preparation instructions:
    • Wear loose-fitting, short-sleeved clothing for easy blood draw access
    • Remain calm and relaxed before testing, as stress can affect DHEA levels
    • Avoid strenuous exercise for 12-24 hours before the test (intense exercise can elevate levels)
    • Inform laboratory of all current medications and supplements
    • If taking DHEA supplements, discontinue at least 48 hours before testing for accurate baseline measurement
    • Maintain normal sleep schedule the night before testing

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