Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) in serum/plasma
This test measures the level of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), 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, stress response, and sex hormone balance.
["DHEA-S helps assess adrenal gland function and hormone balance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 16722-1
- Short code
- DHEA-S sp10 p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- DHEA-S sp10 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?
Doctors may order a DHEA-S test to evaluate adrenal gland health, especially in conditions like adrenal insufficiency, Cushing’s syndrome, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia. It can also be used to monitor hormone-related symptoms or investigate unexplained fatigue, low libido, or other hormonal imbalances.
What does a result mean?
Higher-than-normal levels may suggest conditions like adrenal tumors or certain cancers, while lower-than-normal levels could indicate adrenal gland dysfunction, aging, or chronic stress. However, results alone don’t diagnose a condition—they’re part of a broader evaluation.
How is this test collected?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What should I do before the test?
No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking, especially steroids or hormone therapies, as they may affect results. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before testing if instructed.
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.
DHEA-S levels can be influenced by age, genetics, and chronic health conditions. Low levels are commonly seen in older adults or those with long-term stress or illness, while elevated levels may require further investigation for underlying causes like tumors or metabolic disorders.
Short name
DHEA-S
Frequently asked questions
What are the normal ranges?
Does diet or exercise affect DHEA-S levels?
Can DHEA-S test results change over time?
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