DHEA-S Test: What It Shows and What It Does Not
Quick answer: DHEA-S is a hormone made mostly by the adrenal glands that the body uses to make testosterone and estrogen. Providers check it when there are signs of excess androgens or adrenal conditions. It does not show the cause on its own.
About this test
The test measures DHEA sulfate, a steroid hormone made mainly by the adrenal glands. Levels peak around puberty and decline with age, so results are read against your age.
Why is it ordered?
- In women, excess hair growth, acne, irregular periods or hair loss at the top of the head.
- Looking at adrenal conditions.
- In boys, looking at early or late puberty.
- Reviewing hormones along with testosterone when hair thinning follows a pattern.
What results may show
- A high level can go along with polycystic ovary syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia or adrenal tumors, and rarely an ovarian tumor.
- A low level can go along with adrenal conditions such as Addison disease or with pituitary problems, and falls with normal aging.
What this test may not show
- It does not identify the cause of an abnormal result.
- Normal levels shift with age and sex.
- It does not show whether DHEA supplements are helpful. Over the counter DHEA is promoted for anti aging, but reliable evidence for those claims is lacking.
- An abnormal result does not always mean treatment is needed.
How to prepare
- No special preparation is usually needed.
- Tell your provider about DHEA supplements and medicines.
Where you can get this test
| Option | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Hair Loss Panel | $199 | CBC, ferritin, iron and TIBC, TSH, free T4, vitamin D, total testosterone, DHEA-S |
A doctor’s visit is not required to order. Order online, then visit our Buffalo Grove or Lake Zurich location for the sample. Review results with your own healthcare provider.
Related tests
- Total testosterone: A total testosterone test measures all testosterone in your blood.
- TSH: TSH is the hormone your pituitary gland makes to tell your thyroid how much hormone to produce.
- Browse the full Lab Test Library
Frequently asked questions
What is DHEA-S?
A hormone made mostly by the adrenal glands that the body uses to make testosterone and estrogen.
Why is DHEA-S checked with hair thinning?
It is one of the androgen markers providers review when thinning follows a pattern or comes with acne or irregular periods.
Do I need to fast?
No special preparation is usually needed.
Do DHEA supplements affect the test?
They can. Tell your provider what you take.
Sources
Medically reviewed by Rodion Levin, FNP-C, Founder and Medical Director. This page is for general education. It does not diagnose a condition or replace advice from your healthcare provider.
