Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, DHEA Sulfate or DHEA-S Blood Test

DHEA-S (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) is a male hormone (androgen) that is made in the adrenal glands. The body turns it into testosterone. A test for DHEA-S checks the level of this hormone in the blood. Testosterone affects sexual features and development.

Normal ranges:

Ages 18 to 19 - 145 to 395 µg/dL or 3.92 - 10.66 µmol/L Ages 20 to 29: 65 to 380 µg/dL or 1.75 to 10.26 µmol/L Ages 30 to 39: 45 to 270 µg/dL or 1.22 to 7.29 µmol/L

Your natural DHEA levels are highest when you're a young adult. DHEA is also said by some to slow the aging process, improve sports performance, enhance libido, promote weight loss, and bolster the immune system. And the opposite, decreased DHEA levels are associated with age-related disease and oxidative stress but might be increased in younger adults by exercise.

DHEA increases significantly in response to the resistance exercise, but not to the endurance exercise. Cortisol, another adrenal hormone, needs also be measured. A complex interaction between cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulphate (DHEA-S) is crucial in the stress system balance; several studies have reported increased cortisol levels during chronic stress and a weak counter-regulation by DHEA-S.

If your level of DHEA-S is too high, it may mean that you have adrenal cancer, tumors, or excess growth of hormone-producing tissue (hyperplasia). A common problem in women younger than 50, called polycystic ovary syndrome.

If your DHEA level is low, it may mean that your adrenal glands are not making enough hormones. This can be because of damage to the adrenal gland or a diseased pituitary gland.