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Cortisol with Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) sulfate in serum/plasma

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures your cortisol hormone levels and DHEA sulfate, a precursor hormone, in your blood. These help assess your body’s stress response and adrenal function.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose conditions related to hormone imbalances, including adrenal insufficiency or Cushing’s syndrome."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
101977-7
Short code
Cort+gluc+som p gluca pnl SerPl
Synonyms
Cort+gluc+som p gluca pnl SerPl
Category
glucose
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
true
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order cortisol and DHEA sulfate testing if you have symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, high blood pressure, or unexplained stress. It’s also used to evaluate conditions like adrenal gland disorders, hormone imbalances, or to confirm diagnoses like Cushing’s syndrome or Addison’s disease.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if cortisol is measured separately. Bring any medications you’re taking, as they can affect results.

How the Test Is Performed

A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis using immunoassay methods to measure cortisol and DHEA sulfate levels.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to standard ranges for your age and sex. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like adrenal insufficiency, Cushing’s syndrome, or other hormonal disorders. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Cortisol & DHEA-S

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal cortisol or DHEA sulfate levels?
Abnormally low cortisol or DHEA sulfate may suggest adrenal gland problems (e.g., Addison’s disease), pituitary disorders, or chronic stress. High levels could indicate Cushing’s syndrome, a pituitary tumor, or prolonged stress. Other conditions, like Cushing’s disease or congenital adrenal hyperplasia, may also affect these hormones.
How long will it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready to discuss the findings.
Can I take anything before or after the blood draw?
If fasting is required for cortisol testing, avoid caffeine, alcohol, or strenuous activity 24 hours before. After the draw, you can resume normal activities, but avoid smoking or drinking alcohol for at least 30 minutes if possible to prevent interference with results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy