DHEA Test: Purpose, High/Low Levels, Symptoms, Normal Range & Complete Guide
Overview
The DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) Test is a blood test that measures the level of DHEA and its sulfate form, DHEA-S, in the body. DHEA is an important hormone produced mainly by the adrenal glands and plays a key role in maintaining the balance of several other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen. Because DHEA is involved in many hormonal pathways, this test provides valuable information about the health of the endocrine system.
Doctors commonly request the DHEA or DHEA-S test to evaluate hormonal imbalances, adrenal gland disorders, infertility, irregular periods, excessive hair growth, unexplained fatigue, or symptoms of early or delayed puberty. In men and women, DHEA levels can influence fertility, mood, sexual health, and overall energy levels.
What Is a DHEA Test?
A DHEA test measures:
- DHEA – the active hormone
- DHEA-S – the more stable sulfated form
Since DHEA-S is more consistent throughout the day, most doctors rely on it for accurate diagnosis.
DHEA acts as a precursor hormone, meaning it is used to produce:
- Testosterone
- Estrogen
- Androstenedione
Any imbalance in DHEA levels can affect sexual hormones, reproductive function, bone health, muscle strength, and emotional well-being.
Where Is DHEA Synthesized in the Body?
DHEA is produced in several hormone-producing organs:
Main Sources
- Adrenal cortex (outer part of adrenal glands) – primary site
- Ovaries in women
- Testes in men
How DHEA Works in the Body
After production, DHEA circulates in the bloodstream and is converted into other important hormones such as:
- Androgens (e.g., testosterone)
- Estrogens (e.g., estradiol)
These conversions happen in different tissues including fat cells, skin, and the liver. Because DHEA influences so many processes, abnormal levels can affect multiple body systems.
Main Functions and Importance of DHEA
1. Precursor for Sex Hormones
DHEA acts as the building block for testosterone and estrogen. Without adequate DHEA, the production of these hormones may decline.
2. Helps Develop Secondary Sexual Characteristics
DHEA is involved in:
- Muscle development
- Body and facial hair growth
- Deepening of the voice in males
- Growth during puberty
3. Supports Bone Strength and Muscle Mass
Low DHEA levels are associated with:
- Weak muscles
- Reduced bone density
- Higher risk of osteoporosis
4. Influences Mood and Energy
DHEA helps regulate mood, brain function, and energy. Low levels have been linked with:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Chronic stress
- Low motivation
5. Helps Diagnose Adrenal Disorders
Doctors use the DHEA test to detect:
- Adrenal tumors
- Adrenal hyperplasia
- Hormone-producing cancers
- Disorders where the adrenal glands fail to function properly
Causes of Low DHEA Levels
Low DHEA may be due to several medical or natural causes:
1. Adrenal Insufficiency (Addison’s Disease)
The adrenal glands fail to produce enough hormones, leading to very low DHEA levels.
2. Hypopituitarism
The pituitary gland fails to send ACTH signals to the adrenal glands, reducing hormone production.
3. Natural Aging
DHEA levels peak at age 20–25 and gradually decline after age 30.
4. Chronic Illnesses
Conditions such as long-term infections, autoimmune diseases, or severe stress can suppress DHEA production.
5. Long-Term Steroid or Glucocorticoid Use
Steroid medications reduce the body’s ability to naturally produce DHEA.
Symptoms of Low DHEA Levels
Low DHEA may cause slow and subtle symptoms such as:
- Persistent fatigue
- Low mood or depression
- Decreased sex drive
- Weak muscles
- Reduced bone strength
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irregular or absent periods (in women)
These symptoms can overlap with many other conditions, making the test helpful for diagnosis.
Causes of High DHEA Levels
High DHEA levels may indicate hormonal overproduction due to underlying conditions such as:
1. Adrenal Tumors
Benign or cancerous adrenal tumors can produce excess DHEA.
2. Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)
A genetic disorder that leads to overproduction of adrenal hormones.
3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Women with PCOS may have elevated DHEA due to increased androgen production.
4. Certain Cancers
Rare ovarian or testicular cancers may release higher levels of DHEA.
5. Early Puberty in Children
Higher-than-normal hormone activity may cause increased DHEA in children.
Symptoms of High DHEA Levels
Symptoms vary depending on gender and age.
In Women
- Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
- Deepened voice
- Acne or oily skin
- Male-pattern baldness
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Fertility problems
In Men
- Severe acne
- Hair thinning or baldness
- Aggressive behavior or mood changes
In Children
- Early appearance of pubic or underarm hair
- Rapid growth spurts
- Early signs of puberty
Reference Ranges
Ranges differ depending on age and sex. Typical values include:
Adult Men
- 280 – 640 µg/dL
Adult Women
- 65 – 380 µg/dL
DHEA levels are highest in early adulthood and naturally decrease with age.
Sample Type
- Blood sample (serum)
- Collected through venipuncture
- Usually done in the morning when levels are more stable
- No fasting required
Test Preparation
- No fasting or special diet needed
- Morning testing recommended
- Inform your doctor about hormone-based medications
- Women should mention the phase of their menstrual cycle
- Avoid intense exercise just before testing
When to Consult a Doctor
You should see a doctor if you notice symptoms linked with low or high DHEA levels.
Low DHEA Symptoms
- Chronic tiredness
- Low libido
- Weak muscles
- Frequent mood changes
- Irregular menstrual cycles
High DHEA Symptoms
- Excess hair growth in women
- Severe acne
- Deepened voice
- Early puberty signs in children
- Fertility issues
- Rapid hair loss
Emergency Situations
Immediate medical help is needed if high DHEA is accompanied by:
- Sudden abdominal pain
- Extremely high blood pressure
- Signs of adrenal tumors
- Sudden hormonal changes
Important Word Explanations
Glucocorticoids: Steroid medications that can reduce adrenal hormone production.
DHEA: A hormone that serves as a building block for testosterone and estrogen.
DHEA-S: The stable, sulfated form of DHEA commonly used in testing.
Adrenal Glands: Hormone-producing glands located above the kidneys.
Precursor Hormone: A hormone that converts into other hormones.
CAH: Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a genetic disorder causing high DHEA.
~END~