DHEA Sulfate Test
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This test measures the levels of DHEA sulfate (DHEAS) in your blood. DHEAS stands for dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. DHEAS is mostly made in the adrenal glands, two small glands located above your kidneys.
Your adrenal glands help control your heart rate, blood pressure, and other body functions. They make different types of hormones you need to stay healthy. This includes cortisol, a hormone that helps with your immune system, and DHEAS, a steroid hormone.
DHEAS is a type of androgen (male sex hormone), but it's found in both men and women. Smaller amounts of DHEAS are made in the testicles and ovaries. DHEAS plays an important role in making the male sex hormone testosterone and the female sex hormone estrogen.
DHEAS helps with the development of male sexual characteristics at puberty and reproduction for both sexes. Your DHEAS levels peak around puberty and then get lower as you age. If your DHEAS levels are not normal, it may mean there is a problem with your adrenal glands or sex hormones (estrogen or testosterone).
Why this test is done
You may need this test if you have symptoms of high or low levels of DHEA sulfate (DHEAS). Men may not have any symptoms of high levels of DHEAS.
Symptoms of high levels of DHEAS in women and girls may include:
- Excess body and facial hair growth
- Deepening of voice
- Menstrual irregularities
- Acne
- Becoming very muscular
- Hair loss at the top of the head
Baby girls may also need testing if they have external (outer) genitals that do not look clearly male or female (ambiguous genitalia). Boys may need this test if they have signs of early puberty.
Low levels of DHEAS may have different causes. If the cause of low levels of DHEAS is an adrenal gland disorder, the symptoms can include:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Dehydration
- Craving for salt
If the cause of low levels of DHEAS is related to aging, the symptoms can include:
- Decreased sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction in men
- Thinning of vaginal tissues in women
How to prepare
You don't need any special preparations for a DHEA sulfate test.
Sample type
Blood
Other names for this test
DHEAS, DHEA-S, DHEA, DHEA-SO4, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate
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Educational content only. This entry describes what a test measures and how published reference ranges are defined. It is not a diagnosis, does not interpret your personal results, and is not a substitute for a qualified doctor.