Free Dehydroepiandrosterone (Free DHEA) and/or Human Growth Hormone (HGH) Test
A blood test that measures free DHEA and/or HGH to help assess adrenal hormone and pituitary activity. The order may include one or both hormones.
["This test measures hormone levels that can provide information about adrenal and pituitary function when interpreted with your symptoms and other results."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 90732-9
- Short code
- Freq DHEA, A4 or hGH in past Y
- Synonyms
- Freq DHEA, A4 or hGH in past Y
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- 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
What is this test?
This test measures dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and sometimes human growth hormone (HGH), in a blood sample. DHEA is produced mainly by the adrenal glands, while HGH is produced by the pituitary gland and released in pulses throughout the day.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order these tests to evaluate hormonal symptoms, investigate possible adrenal or pituitary dysfunction, or monitor certain hormone treatments. The results are interpreted alongside age, sex, symptoms, medications, and other laboratory findings.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory, usually with an immunoassay or another validated method. Because HGH levels can rise and fall sharply, a randomly timed result may require repeat or specialized testing.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the preparation instructions provided by the laboratory or ordering clinician. A morning sample may be requested, and fasting may be required in some situations. Tell your clinician about hormone supplements, other medicines, recent illness, intense exercise, and sleep patterns.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An abnormal DHEA result may reflect an adrenal condition, changes in hormone production or metabolism, or the effects of supplements and medicines. An abnormal HGH result can be influenced by pituitary disorders, normal daily fluctuations, sleep, exercise, and nutritional status. Neither result should be interpreted as a diagnosis by itself.
Short name
Free DHEA and HGH
Frequently asked questions
What does “free DHEA” mean?
Can DHEA and HGH be measured from the same blood sample?
What does “in the past year” mean in the test request?
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