DHEA-Sulphate

DHEA-S Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulphate
Serum (SST) µmol/L

About this test

Adrenal androgen precursor; the most abundant circulating steroid. Levels fall with age (adrenopause). Elevated in adrenal causes of hyperandrogenism.

Reference Ranges

Sex Age Range Notes
Female 18–40 yrs 4.3 – 11.3 Female 18–40 (rises at mid-cycle)
Female ≥ 40 yrs 0.9 – 7.6 Female >40; lower post-menopause
Male 18–40 yrs 5.7 – 14.4 Male 18–40
Male ≥ 40 yrs 2.2 – 9.2 Male >40

Clinical Interpretation

Low / Decreased
Low — adrenal insufficiency, ageing (adrenopause), glucocorticoid therapy.
High / Increased
Elevated — adrenal androgen excess, PCOS, congenital adrenal hyperplasia (late-onset), adrenocortical carcinoma.

Related Tests

Specimen
Serum (SST)
Reporting Unit
µmol/L

⚠ Clinical Note
Reference ranges are indicative. Always interpret results in the context of the individual patient and local laboratory reference intervals, which may vary.