Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S)

Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) Is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands.

Its production is regulated by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and prolactin.

DHEA-S can synthesize other, more powerful sex hormones, such as androstenedione, estrogen, and testosterone, which can cause men to develop secondary sex symptoms in women.

Since DHEA-S is produced by the adrenal glands continuously, throughout the day (without daily and long-term changes), it is a good indicator for the detection of abnormalities in the production of male sex hormones by the adrenal glands.

Along with testosterone, DHEA-S (DHEA-C) is used as a screening test for hirsutism (Clinic of Hyperandrogenemia: Baldness, Hirsutism (obesity), infertility, menstrual irregularities, acne, virilization).

84% of women with hirsutism experience an increase in male sex hormones, and a DHEA-S test can determine the cause - is it adrenal gland or ovarian pathology.

When should we test for dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate?

DHEA-S test is conducted:

• To assess the function of the adrenal glands;
• To detect various tumors of the adrenal glands;
• To determine the causes of secondary male sexual characteristics in women;
• To determine the cause of premature puberty in boys.

Estrogen and testosterone levels can be monitored in combination with DHEA-S to fully diagnose sex hormone secretion disorders. Also, if a reduction in DHEA-S production is suspected, adrenocorticotropic hormone testing may be required.

This test is recommended if you have symptoms of decreased or increased DHEA-S secretion.

Elevated DHEA-S levels in men may be asymptomatic.

Symptoms in women:

• Acne;
• Low voice;
• Male-type meningitis on face and body;
• Baldness;
• Irregular menstrual cycle;
• Sterility.

High levels of DHEA-S in children can lead to premature puberty in boys and enlargement of the external genitalia and irregular menstruation in girls.

Low levels of DHEA-S are associated with aging processes and conditions such as:

• diabetes
• Osteoporosis
• Dementia;
• Erectile dysfunction;
• Vaginal atrophy;
• Decreased libido.

Decreased levels of DHEA-S are also seen in some diseases: lupus erythematosus, chronic fatigue syndrome, and AIDS.

How to prepare for the test?

The material is taken in the first half of the day, in a calm state. Fatty foods, exercise and tobacco should be excluded one day before the examination.

Research material

Venous blood

Possible interpretation of the results

High levels of DHEA-S Signs of adrenal disease: Excessive growth of hormone-producing tissue, benign or malignant tumors.

Low levels of DHEA-S Means that the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones. It can be caused by damage to the adrenal glands or pituitary gland. The pituitary gland produces a hormone that stimulates the functioning of the adrenal glands (adenocorticotropic hormone). If the pituitary gland does not produce enough of this hormone, then the adrenal glands will not be able to produce hormones.

Also, the function of the adrenal glands decreases if you start and stop taking certain medications, such as corticosteroids.