Dehydroepiandrosterone – Sulfate (DHEA-S) Lab Test

Description

Dehydroepiandrosterone-Sulfate (DHEA-S) Lab Test – Accurate Assessment of Adrenal Androgen Production

The DHEA-S Test from Lab Tests Dubai is a critical diagnostic blood test that measures levels of Dehydroepiandrosterone-Sulfate (DHEA-S)—a key androgen precursor hormone produced almost exclusively by the adrenal glands.

Unlike testosterone, which can come from the ovaries or testes, DHEA-S is a reliable marker of adrenal androgen activity, making it essential for diagnosing:

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)
• Adrenal tumors or hyperplasia
• Hirsutism, acne, and male-pattern hair loss in women
• Early (precocious) puberty in children
• Adrenal insufficiency or Addison’s disease

Using high-sensitivity chemiluminescence technology, this serum-based test delivers accurate results within just 1 day, empowering endocrinologists, gynecologists, and fertility specialists to diagnose, monitor, and treat hormonal disorders effectively.

Available with home blood collection, Lab Tests Dubai makes hormonal health testing fast, private, and stress-free—so you can get answers without disruption to your life.

Why You Need This Test

If you’re struggling with unwanted hair growth, acne, or irregular periods, this test could reveal the hidden source of your hormonal imbalance.

You need the DHEA-S Test if:

• You have symptoms of PCOS: hirsutism, acne, irregular cycles, infertility
• You’re being evaluated for adrenal dysfunction or tumor
• You experience virilization (deep voice, increased muscle mass)
• You’re a child with early puberty signs (before age 8 in girls, 9 in boys)
• You have elevated total testosterone but unclear origin
• You’re on hormonal therapy and need monitoring

DHEA-S helps differentiate:

• Ovarian vs. adrenal source of androgen excess
• PCOS (normal or mildly elevated DHEA-S) vs. adrenal tumors (very high levels)

This test is not just about symptoms—it’s about pinpointing the root cause.

Symptoms That Indicate This Test

Consider the DHEA-S Test if you experience:

✅ For Women:

• Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
• Severe acne or oily skin
• Male-pattern hair loss (androgenic alopecia)
• Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
• Infertility or anovulation
• Weight gain (especially abdominal)

✅ For Children:

• Early pubic or axillary hair
• Rapid growth spurt
• Adult body odor in young children
• Genital changes

✅ For Men (rare):

• Low libido or fatigue
• Signs of adrenal dysfunction

✅ Other Indicators:

• Family history of adrenal disorders
• Abnormal imaging (adrenal nodule on CT/MRI)

These signs may point to excess androgen production from the adrenal glands—and this test identifies whether your adrenals are overactive.

Natural Production: How DHEA-S Regulates Hormone Balance

DHEA-S is a sulfated steroid hormone produced primarily in the zona reticularis of the adrenal cortex. It serves as a precursor to testosterone and estrogen in peripheral tissues.

Key facts:

• 95% of DHEA-S comes from the adrenals (unlike testosterone, which can be ovarian)
• Levels peak in the 20s–30s and decline with age (“adrenal menopause”)
• Secretion is regulated by ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone)

Normal Ranges (Approximate):

Elevated Levels May Indicate:

• Adrenal tumors (benign or malignant)
• Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)
• PCOS (mild elevation)
• Cushing’s syndrome

Low Levels:

• Adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease)
• Hypopituitarism
• Chronic illness or aging

This test helps map adrenal function—so treatment can be targeted.

What Happens If Untreated? Risks of Ignoring Adrenal Hormone Imbalance

Ignoring abnormal DHEA-S levels can lead to:

⚠️ Worsening PCOS Symptoms – more hair, acne, weight gain
⚠️ Infertility & Anovulation – without ovulation, conception is difficult
⚠️ Metabolic Syndrome – insulin resistance, diabetes, heart disease
⚠️ Progression of Adrenal Tumors – if undiagnosed
⚠️ Growth & Development Issues – early bone fusion → short stature in children
⚠️ Adrenal Crisis – in undiagnosed CAH or Addison’s

The good news? Most causes are treatable with:

• Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise)
• Oral contraceptives (to suppress androgens)
• Anti-androgens (spironolactone)
• Corticosteroids (for CAH or adrenal hyperplasia)
• Surgery (for tumors)

Early testing = earlier relief and better outcomes.

How to Prepare for the Test

To ensure accurate results:

✅ No fasting required
✅ Continue your regular medications—but inform your doctor
✅ Test in the morning (DHEA-S has minimal diurnal variation, but morning is standard)
✅ Avoid intense exercise or stress 24 hours before
✅ Inform your doctor of:

• Hormonal medications (birth control, steroids)
• Recent illness or steroid use

A serum blood sample is collected via standard draw—available at our labs or via home collection.

Test Overview: High-Sensitivity Chemiluminescence Method