Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) in serum/plasma
This test measures the level of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), a hormone produced mainly by the adrenal glands. It reflects your body’s natural production of sex hormones.
["DHEAS helps assess adrenal function and hormone balance, especially in conditions related to sex hormones or adrenal disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 56591-1
- Short code
- DHEA-S 3h p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- DHEA-S 3h p chal SerPl-mCnc
- 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
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order a DHEAS test to evaluate symptoms like low libido, irregular periods, or signs of adrenal gland issues. It can also help diagnose conditions such as adrenal insufficiency, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or certain cancers affecting hormone production.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re on certain medications, let your provider know, as they may affect results.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted based on your age, sex, and overall health. High levels may indicate overactivity of the adrenal glands or certain tumors, while low levels could suggest adrenal problems or other hormonal imbalances.
Common Conditions Linked to DHEAS
DHEAS is often checked in cases of suspected adrenal disorders, such as Cushing’s syndrome, Addison’s disease, or conditions like precocious puberty in children. It may also be used in monitoring hormone-related cancers or evaluating fertility issues.
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.
Clinical significance: DHEAS is a key marker for adrenal function and sex hormone production. Abnormal levels can signal underlying hormonal imbalances, adrenal tumors, or congenital adrenal disorders. It’s particularly useful in diagnosing conditions affecting early puberty, infertility, or chronic fatigue with hormonal causes.
Short name
DHEAS
Frequently asked questions
What does a DHEAS test measure?
How long does it take to get DHEAS results?
Can diet or exercise affect DHEAS levels?
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