Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA Test)

DHEA-S is the sulfated form of DHEA and is the major androgen produced by the adrenal glands. This test is used in the differential diagnosis of hirsute or virilized female patients and for the diagnosis of isolated premature adrenarche and adrenal tumors.

Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S) is the sulfated form of DHEA. It is a type of male sex hormone which is present in both men and women. DHEA-S is mostly produced in the adrenal glands and is important for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics, conversion to the female hormone estrogen and conversion to testosterone. The measurement of DHEA-S is helpful in assessing adrenal function. Adrenal carcinomas often increase the levels of DHEA-S in the blood. It is also useful in identifying the differential diagnosis in women who have amenorrhoea or virilization and hirsutism.

This test is performed in following conditions such as:

• When a female has excess facial and body hair or acne
• When there is an absence of menstrual periods
• When a woman is having infertility
• when a boy shows signs of very early puberty such as deeper voice, pubic hair or muscle development

Also Known As: DHEA-S, DHEA-SO4