DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate)

DHEA-S is a steroid hormone produced mainly by the adrenal glands (and in smaller amounts by the gonads). As a precursor to both estrogens and androgens (e.g., testosterone), it plays a key role in maintaining hormonal balance throughout life.

Normal Reference Ranges

DHEA-S levels peak in early adulthood (late teens to early 20s) and decline steadily with age. Values are reported in micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL) and vary by sex and age bracket:

• Females:

  • 18–29 yrs: 65–380 µg/dL

  • 30–39 yrs: 45–270 µg/dL

  • 40–49 yrs: 32–240 µg/dL

  • 50+ yrs: 26–200 µg/dL

• Males:

  • 18–29 yrs: 180–492 µg/dL

  • 30–39 yrs: 120–379 µg/dL

  • 40–49 yrs: 95–350 µg/dL

  • 50+ yrs: 70–310 µg/dL

(Ranges may vary slightly by laboratory methods.)

Physiological Roles

• Sex-hormone synthesis: Provides substrate for estrogen and testosterone production.

• Adrenal health: Reflects overall adrenal gland function and correlates with cortisol production.

• Bone, skin & brain: Supports bone density, skin integrity, and cognitive performance.

Conditions Detected

• Elevated DHEA-S:

  • Adrenal hyperplasia or adenomas

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

  • Androgen-secreting tumors

• Low DHEA-S:

  • Adrenal insufficiency (e.g., Addison’s disease)

  • Pituitary disorders

  • Chronic illness or age-related decline

Clinical Symptoms

• Deficiency: Fatigue, low libido, muscle weakness, mood instability; in women, may exacerbate menopausal hot flashes and vaginal dryness.

• Excess: Hirsutism (excess body hair), acne, irregular menstrual cycles, virilization, and—rarely—precocious puberty in children.

How the Test Is Performed

A simple blood draw—typically from a forearm vein—is all that’s required. No special preparation (fasting) is usually needed, though follow your provider’s instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What causes low DHEA-S?
   Adrenal insufficiency, aging, pituitary dysfunction, or chronic illness can all reduce DHEA-S production.

2. What does high DHEA-S indicate?
   Elevated levels may point to PCOS, adrenal tumors, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

3. Can DHEA-S affect fertility?
   Yes—high androgen precursors may disrupt ovulation and menstrual regularity in women.

4. Is there treatment for abnormal DHEA-S?
   Addressing the underlying adrenal or ovarian condition, plus lifestyle and, if needed, hormone-modulating therapies.

5. How often should DHEA-S be tested?
   Your clinician will recommend testing frequency based on symptoms and any ongoing endocrine disorders.