Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS)
This test measures the level of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) in your blood, a hormone produced mainly by the adrenal glands. It reflects your body’s natural steroid hormone activity.
["DHEAS helps assess adrenal gland function and hormone balance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2190-7
- Short code
- DHEA-S Amn-mCnc
- Synonyms
- DHEA-S Amn-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 135
- Ref high
- 980
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82626
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order a DHEAS test to evaluate conditions affecting hormone production, such as adrenal insufficiency, Cushing’s syndrome, or hormonal imbalances. It can also be used in research or clinical settings to monitor certain metabolic or endocrine disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn in the morning. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking, as they could affect results.
How the Test Is Performed
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to measure DHEAS levels.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a mass concentration in the blood. While reference ranges vary by lab, lower than expected levels may indicate adrenal gland issues, while higher levels could suggest conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or 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.
Clinical Significance: DHEAS plays a role in sex hormone production and stress response. Abnormal levels may signal underlying health concerns, such as adrenal dysfunction, metabolic disorders, or hormonal imbalances, prompting further evaluation by your doctor.
Short name
DHEAS
Frequently asked questions
What causes DHEAS levels to change?
How long does it take to get my DHEAS test results?
Can I take anything before my DHEAS 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