Abnormal Circulating Dehydroepiandrosterone Concentration C4477081
DHEA is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that affects energy, mood, and hormone balance. Abnormal levels may cause fatigue, hormonal imbalances, or impact overall well-being. Treatment varies based on the underlying cause.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- E34.9
- ICD-11
- 5A00.0
- Body system
- endocrine
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Fatigue
(constitutional)Persistent tiredness and lack of energy that does not improve with rest
Frequency: 60-70% of patients
Decreased libido
(reproductive)Reduced sexual desire and interest in sexual activity
Frequency: 50-60% of patients
Excessive hair growth
(dermatologic)Growth of coarse, dark hair in areas typical of male pattern distribution
Frequency: 40-50% of patients
Acne
(dermatologic)Persistent or severe acne outbreaks, particularly on face, chest, and back
Frequency: 40-50% of patients
Mood changes
(neurologic)Emotional fluctuations including irritability, anxiety, or feelings of sadness
Frequency: 30-40% of patients
Menstrual irregularities
(reproductive)Changes in menstrual cycle including irregular periods, missed periods, or abnormal flow
Frequency: 50-60% of patients
Erectile dysfunction
(reproductive)Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection during sexual activity
Frequency: 10-20% of patients
Weight changes
(constitutional)Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight despite diet and exercise
Frequency: 40-50% of patients
Loss of muscle mass
(musculoskeletal)Decreased muscle strength and mass, even with regular exercise
Frequency: 15-25% of patients
Breast enlargement
(reproductive)Enlargement of breast tissue in males, often causing tenderness
Frequency: 10-15% of patients
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
DHEA Supplementation or Suppression
Depending on whether DHEA is deficient or elevated, treatment involves appropriate hormone replacement or suppression. Endocrine evaluation determines the specific approach needed.
Endocrine management
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Endocrine Monitoring
Regular assessment of DHEA-S levels and associated hormones through blood testing to guide treatment adjustments and evaluate underlying causes.
Additional treatment options
Stress Reduction and Sleep Optimization
Stress management techniques and adequate sleep can naturally support adrenal function and DHEA production.
lifestyleAdrenal-Supportive Nutrition
Balanced diet rich in nutrients that support adrenal hormone synthesis including zinc, vitamin D, and healthy fats.
dietaryAdaptogenic Herb Support
Certain adaptogenic herbs may support overall adrenal function and hormone balance as adjunctive therapy.
complementaryWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Abnormal Circulating Dehydroepiandrosterone Concentration C4477081?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Bornstein SR, Allolio B, Arlt W, et al. Diagnosis and Treatment of Primary Adrenal Insufficiency: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2016;101(2):364-389.
Arlt W, Allolio B. Adrenal insufficiency. Lancet. 2003;361(9372):1881-1893.
Endocrine Society. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Replacement Therapy: Position Statement. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2019;104(7):2647-2652.
Cappola AR, Desideri G, Palmer J, et al. DHEA and DHEA-S in Adrenal Insufficiency: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2020;105(6):dgz287.
Arlt W, Callies F, van Vlijmen JC, et al. Dehydroepiandrosterone replacement in women with adrenal insufficiency. N Engl J Med. 1999;341(14):1013-1020.
Speiser PW, Arlt W, Auchus RJ, et al. Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Due to Steroid 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2018;103(11):4043-4088.
Miller WL, Auchus RJ. The molecular biology, biochemistry, and physiology of human steroidogenesis and its disorders. Endocr Rev. 2011;32(1):81-151.
Melmed S, Polonsky KS, Larsen PR, Kronenberg HM. Williams Textbook of Endocrinology. 14th ed. Elsevier; 2019.
Medication Comparisons
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy