Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) in serum/plasma
This test measures the level of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), a hormone produced mainly in the adrenal glands. It reflects your body’s production of androgens, which are hormones involved in sex characteristics and overall health.
["DHEAS helps assess adrenal gland function and hormone balance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 56588-7
- Short code
- DHEA-S 45M p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- DHEA-S 45M 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 conditions affecting hormone levels, such as adrenal insufficiency, Cushing’s syndrome, or hormonal imbalances. It can also be used in the evaluation of certain cancers (e.g., prostate or breast cancer) or to monitor treatment responses in hormone-related disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically required, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Wear comfortable clothing and avoid strenuous activity the day of the test. Inform your provider about any medications you’re taking, as some may affect results.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a brief pinch, but the procedure usually takes less than 5 minutes. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What Are the Possible Results?
Results are reported as a mass concentration in serum/plasma. While reference ranges vary by lab and age, lower than expected levels may suggest adrenal gland issues, while higher levels could indicate conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or certain tumors. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
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 plays a role in sex hormone production and metabolism. Low DHEAS levels may signal adrenal dysfunction, while elevated levels could be linked to hormonal imbalances or tumors. It’s often used as a marker in diagnosing or monitoring conditions like adrenal insufficiency, Cushing’s disease, or hormonal cancers.
Short name
DHEAS
Frequently asked questions
What does a DHEAS test measure?
Can DHEAS levels change with age?
Are there any risks or side effects from 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