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DHEAS

Also known as: DHEA-SO4; DHEA Sulfate
Formal name: Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate
Related tests: Testosterone; ACTH; FSH; LH; Prolactin; Estrogen

The Test Sample

What is being tested?

Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) is an androgen, a male sex hormone that is present in the blood of both men and women. It has a role to play in developing male secondary sexual characteristics at puberty, and it can be metabolized by the body into more potent androgens, such as testosterone and androstenedione, or can be changed into the female hormone estrogen. DHEAS is produced by the adrenal cortex, the outer layer of the adrenal glands, with smaller amounts being produced by the woman's ovaries and man's testes. DHEAS secretion is controlled by the pituitary hormone adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and by other pituitary factors.

Since DHEAS is primarily produced by the adrenal glands, it is useful as a marker for adrenal function. Adrenal tumors, cancers, and hyperplasia can lead to the overproduction of DHEAS. While elevated levels may not be noticed in adult men, they can lead to amenorrhea and visible symptoms of virilization. These changes vary in severity and may include:

  • a deeper voice
  • hirsutism
  • male pattern baldness
  • muscularity
  • acne
  • enlargement of the Adam’s apple

    • Excess levels of DHEAS in children can cause precocious puberty in boys; and ambiguous external genitalia, excess body hair, and abnormal menstrual periods in girls.

    How is the sample collected for testing?

    A blood sample is obtained by inserting a needle into a vein in the arm. As an alternative, particularly in pediatric care, the blood sample is drawn from the fingertip. This is often called a "fingerstick."

    NOTE: If undergoing medical tests makes you or someone you care for anxious, embarrassed, or even difficult to manage, you might consider reading one or more of the following articles: Coping with Test Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety, Tips on Blood Testing, Tips to Help Children through Their Medical Tests, and Tips to Help the Elderly through Their Medical Tests.

    Another article, Follow That Sample, provides a glimpse at the collection and processing of a blood sample and throat culture.

    Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?

    No test preparation is needed. Women should talk to their doctors about the timing of the test. The doctor may want to have the sample collected a week before or after the woman’s menstrual period.