Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) in serum/plasma
This test measures the sulfate form of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands. It reflects your body’s natural production of this hormone, which plays a role in energy levels, immune function, and sex hormone balance.
["DHEA-S helps assess adrenal gland health and may indicate hormonal imbalances."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14688-6
- Short code
- DHEA-S SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- DHEA-S SerPl-sCnc
- 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 Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order a DHEA-S test to evaluate adrenal function, especially if you have symptoms like fatigue, low libido, muscle weakness, or unexplained weight changes. It can also be part of workups for conditions like adrenal insufficiency, Cushing’s syndrome, or hormonal disorders.
What Does a Low or High Result Mean?
Low levels of DHEA-S may suggest adrenal gland issues, such as chronic stress, autoimmune diseases, or certain medications affecting hormone production. High levels could be seen in conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or rare genetic disorders.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma, which is sent to a lab for analysis using a specialized immunoassay method to measure DHEA-S concentration.
What Should You Do Before the Test?
No special preparation is usually needed, but avoid alcohol for 24 hours before testing. If you’re on medications that affect hormones, like steroids, inform your provider beforehand.
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: DHEA-S plays a role in energy metabolism, immune response, and as a precursor to other sex hormones. Abnormal levels can signal underlying conditions requiring medical attention, such as adrenal dysfunction or hormonal imbalances.
Short name
DHEA-S
Frequently asked questions
What causes DHEA-S levels to change?
How long does it take to get results?
Can diet or supplements affect DHEA-S 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