Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) in serum/plasma
This test measures the sulfate form of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands. It reflects your body’s natural production of this hormone, which plays a role in energy levels, stress response, and sex hormone balance.
["DHEA-S helps assess adrenal gland function and hormone balance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 109642-9
- Short code
- DHEA Msmt Sal
- Synonyms
- DHEA Msmt Sal
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 135
- Ref high
- 980
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82626
- 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
What Does DHEA-S Measure?
DHEA-S is a form of DHEA bound to sulfate in your blood. Your adrenal glands produce DHEA, which is a precursor to other hormones like testosterone and estrogen. Measuring DHEA-S provides insight into your adrenal health and hormone production over time.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend a DHEA-S test to evaluate conditions affecting adrenal function, such as adrenal insufficiency, Cushing’s syndrome, or hormonal imbalances. It can also be used in the evaluation of chronic fatigue, low energy, or other symptoms linked to hormonal deficiencies.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to measure DHEA-S levels.
What Are Common Reasons for Testing?
Common reasons include assessing adrenal function, diagnosing hormonal disorders, evaluating symptoms like fatigue, low libido, or unexplained weight changes, and monitoring conditions like Addison’s disease or adrenal tumors.
Reference range
NCBI: DHEA-S Male 135-980 µg/dL; Female 30-260 µg/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
DHEA-S
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle changes affect DHEA-S levels?
Is fasting required for this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy