DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone produced mainly by the adrenal glands and serves as a precursor for other sex hormones. The DHEA test measures its level in the blood and helps assess adrenal hormone production. It is needed to investigate symptoms of abnormal androgen production, such as excessive hair growth, early puberty, menstrual irregularities, or hormonal imbalance, and may help evaluate certain adrenal gland disorders.
DHEA is a steroid hormone produced mainly by the adrenal glands. It acts as a precursor for the production of other hormones, including testosterone and estrogens.
An elevated level may indicate increased adrenal androgen production. Possible causes include certain adrenal disorders, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or, less commonly, an adrenal tumor.
Low DHEA may occur with reduced adrenal function, certain pituitary disorders, or naturally with increasing age. Interpretation depends on age, sex, symptoms, and other hormone results.
Yes. DHEA levels normally vary according to sex, age, and physiological status. Laboratory reference ranges are therefore usually specific to age and sex.
No. DHEA and DHEA-S (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) are related hormones. DHEA-S is the sulfated form and is generally more stable in the bloodstream.