Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) in serum/plasma
This test measures the amount of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), a hormone produced mainly by the adrenal glands. It reflects your body’s natural production of this hormone, which plays a role in sex hormone balance and overall health.
["DHEAS helps assess adrenal gland function and hormone balance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49887-3
- Short code
- DHEA sp1 p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- DHEA sp1 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 adrenal gland health, especially if you have symptoms like fatigue, low sex drive, or hormonal imbalances. It can also be used in conditions like adrenal insufficiency, Cushing’s syndrome, or to monitor certain cancers.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if instructed, but this is not always required. Wear comfortable clothing and bring any necessary medications with you.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes only a few minutes. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis.
What Does the Test Result Mean?
Results are not provided as a single numeric range since they vary widely based on age, sex, and health status. Your provider will interpret the result in relation to your medical history and symptoms. Low levels may indicate adrenal issues, while very high levels could suggest conditions like Cushing’s syndrome.
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
DHEAS Level
Frequently asked questions
What does a DHEAS test measure?
Can fasting affect DHEAS test results?
How long does it take to get DHEAS test results?
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