DHEA-S
Also written as: DHEA sulfate, Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate
A stable adrenal androgen used to check whether the adrenal glands are the source of excess hormones.
What it measures
The level of DHEA sulfate, an androgen (masculinizing hormone) made almost entirely by the adrenal glands. Because it stays steady through the day and across the menstrual cycle, it serves as a stable readout of adrenal androgen output.
Why a doctor orders it
Ordered mainly when signs of androgen excess - such as excess facial or body hair, acne, or irregular periods - need to be traced to a source, since DHEA-S points toward the adrenal glands rather than the ovaries. Sometimes included in broader adrenal function work-ups.
What is generally associated with a higher result
Broadly associated with adrenal sources of androgen excess, including common benign overactivity, and with use of over-the-counter DHEA supplements. Levels are naturally higher in younger adults.
What is generally associated with a lower result
Broadly associated with normal aging, since DHEA-S declines steadily from early adulthood onward, and with reduced adrenal output or long-term steroid medication use. Low values on their own are often not pursued.
Everyday things that move this number
Not every shift in a value reflects disease. These are ordinary factors known to affect this particular measurement:
- Age - levels fall naturally decade by decade
- Over-the-counter DHEA supplements
- Steroid medications, which suppress adrenal output
- Biotin supplements, which can interfere with some lab methods
Questions to take to your appointment
- Is this level in keeping with my age?
- Could a supplement I take, including DHEA itself, explain this result?
- Should ovarian hormone tests be checked alongside this to compare possible sources?
Build a printable questionnaire with your own results →
Where to read more
MedlinePlus, from the US National Library of Medicine, publishes patient-facing pages on individual lab tests and is a reliable next stop: medlineplus.gov/lab-tests .
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