Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) in serum/plasma

This test helps your doctor check how well your body is working and look for signs of illness, infection, or other health problems. It can confirm a suspected condition, rule out possible causes of your symptoms, or monitor a condition you already have, helping guide decisions about your care and treatment plan.

Your healthcare provider may order a DHEA-S test to check for adrenal gland issues, such as adrenal insufficiency or hyperfunction. It can also be used in the evaluation of conditions like Cushing’s syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or certain cancers that produce excess hormones. Sometimes, it’s part of a broader evaluation for unexplained fatigue, low libido, or hormonal imbalances.

Depending on the type of test, a small sample of your blood, urine, or other body fluid may be collected, or a simple scan or measurement may be taken. The procedure is usually quick and performed in a lab, clinic, or office setting, and most people can return to their normal activities right afterward.

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis. The test measures the concentration of DHEA-S in your serum or plasma, which is a form of the hormone stored in the blood.

Doctors commonly use this test during routine checkups, to investigate symptoms such as fatigue, pain, or fever, to screen for conditions before they cause noticeable problems, and to track how well a medication or treatment is working for you over time.

DHEA-S levels can help diagnose or monitor conditions like adrenal disorders, certain cancers (e.g., breast, prostate), or as part of fertility evaluations. It may also be used in research or clinical trials exploring hormone-related therapies.

Several factors can influence your results, including certain medicines and supplements, recent meals, dehydration, alcohol use, exercise before the test, and stress. Let your care team know about anything you have taken or done recently so they can interpret your results accurately.

Several factors can influence DHEA-S levels, including age (levels tend to decline with age), sex hormones, stress, medications (e.g., steroids), and certain medical conditions. Recent exercise, smoking, or alcohol consumption can also temporarily affect results.