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DHEA - Dehydroepiandrostenedione
Reproductive
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
How our test process works!

