DHT Test: Purpose, High/Low Levels, Symptoms, Normal Range & Complete Guide
Overview
The DHT (Dihydrotestosterone) Test is a blood test that measures the level of DHT in the body. DHT is a strong androgen, or male sex hormone, created when testosterone is converted by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. DHT is more potent than testosterone and plays a critical role in the development of male features such as body hair, deep voice, muscle mass, and prostate growth.
Because DHT binds strongly to androgen receptors, even small changes in its level can affect sexual development, hair growth, fertility, and prostate health. Doctors commonly use this test to investigate causes of hair loss (especially male pattern baldness), diagnose prostate-related issues, evaluate early or delayed puberty, and assess hormonal imbalances in both men and women.
What Is a DHT Test?
A DHT test measures the amount of dihydrotestosterone, a hormone derived from testosterone. Since DHT influences a variety of tissues in the body, this test helps identify the source and impact of hormonal changes.
Body Systems Affected by DHT
- Hair follicles
- Prostate gland
- Male genital development
- Body and facial hair growth
- Libido and sexual function
Doctors typically order this test when symptoms suggest that abnormal DHT levels are contributing to conditions such as infertility, hair loss, puberty disorders, or prostate enlargement.
Where Is DHT Produced in the Body?
DHT is not produced directly by a gland. Instead, it forms when testosterone is converted into DHT by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. Several tissues contain this enzyme, making those areas the main sites of DHT production.
1. Skin
DHT in the skin controls facial and body hair growth. Excessive DHT can cause acne and contribute to hair loss.
2. Hair Follicles
High DHT levels shrink hair follicles, eventually leading to androgenic alopecia (male pattern baldness).
3. Prostate Gland
DHT helps regulate prostate development. However, too much DHT can cause prostate enlargement (BPH).
4. Liver
A small portion of testosterone converts to DHT in the liver.
5. Testosterone-Producing Organs
Because testosterone is the precursor for DHT, these organs indirectly contribute:
- Testes (men)
- Ovaries (women)
- Adrenal glands
Main Functions and Importance of DHT
DHT plays a major role in hormonal and physical development.
1. Development of Male Characteristics
During puberty, DHT is responsible for:
- Deepening of the voice
- Growth of facial and body hair
- Development of male genitalia
- Increase in muscle mass
2. Prostate Health
DHT supports normal prostate growth. However, excess DHT can cause:
- Prostate enlargement
- Increased urinary symptoms
- Higher risk of prostate issues as men age
3. Hair Growth and Baldness
DHT strongly affects hair follicles:
- High DHT → hair follicle shrinkage → thinning hair → baldness
- Normal DHT maintains hair and skin health
4. Sexual Function
DHT influences libido, sexual performance, and masculine physical characteristics.
5. Role in Hormonal Disorders
Abnormal DHT levels may contribute to:
- PCOS (in women)
- Prostate cancer risk
- Infertility
- Puberty abnormalities
Causes of Low DHT Levels
Low DHT may occur due to disruptions in testosterone production or conversion.
1. 5-Alpha Reductase Deficiency
The enzyme needed to convert testosterone into DHT is low or absent.
2. Hypogonadism
Low testosterone production leads to low DHT levels.
3. DHT-Blocking Medicines
Drugs such as finasteride and dutasteride lower DHT levels. These are commonly used for:
- Hair loss treatment
- Prostate enlargement
4. Pituitary or Testicular Disorders
Hormonal signaling problems can reduce testosterone and DHT.
Symptoms of Low DHT Levels
Low DHT may result in:
- Reduced facial and body hair
- Delayed puberty in boys
- Underdeveloped genitalia in genetic males
- Low libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Infertility (in severe cases)
- Low energy levels
- Slower sexual development
These symptoms often progress slowly and may not be immediately noticeable.
Causes of High DHT Levels
High DHT levels can arise from increased testosterone production or excessive hormone conversion.
1. Excess Testosterone Production
Conditions like adrenal or testicular tumors can elevate testosterone and DHT.
2. High 5-Alpha Reductase Activity
If the body converts too much testosterone into DHT, levels rise significantly.
3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Women with PCOS may produce excess DHT and other androgens.
4. Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)
A genetic condition that increases androgen production.
5. Anabolic Steroid Use
Taking artificial testosterone raises DHT levels.
Symptoms of High DHT Levels
In Men
- Male pattern baldness
- Increased acne and oily skin
- Enlarged prostate
- Reduced fertility
- Aggressive mood or irritability
- Excess body hair
In Women
- Facial or body hair growth (hirsutism)
- Acne
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Deepened voice
- Hair thinning or baldness
- Infertility
In Boys
- Early puberty
- Rapid height increase
- Early growth of pubic hair
- Enlarged genitalia
Reference Ranges
Ranges vary based on age and laboratory standards.
Adult Males
- 30 – 85 ng/dL
Adult Females
- 3 – 30 ng/dL
Men naturally have significantly higher DHT levels than women due to greater testosterone production.
Sample Type
- Blood sample (serum)
- Collected from a vein
- Morning samples may provide more accurate results
- Usually no special preparation required
Test Preparation
- No fasting required
- Avoid intense physical workout before testing
- Inform your doctor if you are taking:
- Finasteride
- Dutasteride
- Testosterone
- Steroids
- Women should mention menstrual cycle timing
- Stay hydrated for smooth sample collection
When to Consult a Doctor
Seek medical advice if you experience any signs of low or high DHT.
Low DHT Symptoms
- Reduced body or facial hair
- Low libido
- Weak erections
- Delayed puberty
- Infertility
- Poor energy levels
High DHT Symptoms
- Rapid hair loss
- Severe acne
- Excess facial/body hair
- Deep voice (women)
- Irregular periods
- Prostate-related symptoms
- Early puberty in children
Emergency Symptoms
Seek immediate medical attention if you have:
- Sudden severe hormonal imbalance
- Difficulty urinating due to prostate swelling
- Rapid virilization in women
- Symptoms of tumors (unexplained weight loss, severe pain)
Important Word Explanations
Precursor: A substance used to create another hormone.
DHT: A strong male hormone formed from testosterone.
Androgen: Hormones responsible for masculine features.
5-Alpha Reductase: Enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT.
Hypogonadism: Condition causing low testosterone.
Hirsutism: Excess facial or body hair in women.
BPH: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, a prostate enlargement condition.
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