Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood sample from a vein
- Fasting: 10-12 hours
- Turn-around: 6-7 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
Benefits
- Skip the doctor's office — Order directly without physician referrals
- Advanced accuracy — LC-MS/MS technology provides precise hormone measurement
- Fast results — Get secure results in 6-7 days with online access
- Early detection — Identify hormonal imbalances before symptoms worsen
- Comprehensive insights — Evaluate adrenal function and reproductive health
- Cost-effective monitoring — Track hormone levels without expensive office visits
Who Is This Test For?
- Women with irregular periods, excess hair growth, or fertility concerns
- Individuals experiencing unexplained fatigue or low energy levels
- People with suspected PCOS or other hormonal imbalances
- Those monitoring age-related hormone decline
- Adults considering hormone replacement therapy
- Anyone with family history of adrenal disorders
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order online — No appointment needed, just visit any participating lab
- Quick blood draw — Simple 5-minute procedure from arm vein
- Get results — Secure online access to results within 6-7 days
FAQ
What does this test measure? DHEA levels in your blood, a hormone produced by adrenal glands that converts to testosterone and estrogen.
Do I need to fast before testing? Most DHEA-S tests don't require fasting, though some labs may request 10-12 hours fasting for DHEA specifically.
When is the best time to test? Morning between 7-10 AM when DHEA-S levels are naturally highest for most accurate results.
Can medications affect results? Yes, stop DHEA supplements and biotin 72 hours before testing; inform lab of hormone medications.
What if my results are abnormal? Consult a healthcare provider for interpretation and potential follow-up testing or treatment options.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
The DHEA blood test evaluates adrenal gland function by measuring dehydroepiandrosterone levels, a steroid hormone that serves as a building block for testosterone and estrogen (Cleveland Clinic, 2025). This diagnostic tool helps identify hormonal imbalances that may indicate conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), adrenal tumors, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia. The test uses advanced liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) methodology for precise quantification, making it valuable for assessing reproductive health and age-related hormonal changes across different life stages.
Who would benefit from this test?
Women experiencing hirsutism, irregular menstrual cycles, or fertility issues should consider DHEA testing, as these symptoms may indicate PCOS, which affects 5.2% of women aged 16-40 in the United States (American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2023). Individuals with suspected adrenal disorders, children showing signs of precocious puberty, and adults monitoring hormone replacement therapy effectiveness also benefit from this assessment. Additionally, health-conscious consumers seeking to understand age-related hormonal decline or those managing chronic fatigue can gain valuable insights from DHEA testing.
When should I order a Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Blood Test?
Consider ordering this test if you're experiencing symptoms like excessive hair growth, severe acne, menstrual irregularities, or unexplained fatigue that could indicate hormonal imbalances. The test is particularly valuable when monitoring hormone therapy effectiveness or investigating causes of infertility or reproductive health concerns. Women with suspected PCOS, individuals with family history of adrenal disorders, or those concerned about age-related hormone decline should discuss testing timing with healthcare providers for optimal assessment.
How do I interpret the results?
Above normal range
- What it means: May indicate adrenal tumors, PCOS, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia
- Typical action: Further evaluation with imaging or additional hormone tests
Within normal range
- What it means: Healthy adrenal function for your age and sex
- Typical action: Continue routine monitoring as recommended
Below normal range
- What it means: Could suggest Addison's disease, hypopituitarism, or normal aging
- Typical action: Consult healthcare provider for comprehensive evaluation
Normal DHEA-S ranges vary significantly by age and sex, with levels naturally declining after age 30.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Pre-test preparation
No fasting is typically required for DHEA-S testing, though some laboratories may request 10-12 hours of fasting for standard DHEA measurement. Stop taking biotin supplements 72 hours before collection and avoid DHEA or DHEA-sulfate supplements prior to testing. Inform the laboratory of any hormone medications you're taking, as these may affect results. Schedule testing for morning hours between 7-10 AM when DHEA-S levels are naturally highest, and women may need to test at specific points in their menstrual cycle for accurate interpretation.
How often should I get tested?
Monitoring PCOS treatment: Every 3-6 months initially, then annually
- Hormone replacement therapy: Every 3-6 months during adjustment, then annually
- Suspected adrenal disorders: As directed by healthcare provider
- General health monitoring: Every 1-2 years after age 40
- Age-related hormone decline: Annually or as symptoms develop
Why early detection matters
Early detection of DHEA abnormalities enables timely intervention for serious conditions like adrenal tumors or congenital adrenal hyperplasia, potentially preventing complications and improving treatment outcomes. Women with PCOS show 68% higher risk of cardiovascular disease, making early diagnosis crucial for implementing preventive measures (American Heart Association Journal, 2024). Identifying hormonal imbalances early allows for lifestyle modifications, targeted treatments, and regular monitoring that can significantly improve quality of life and long-term health outcomes.
Related tests you may consider
Testosterone Total and Free — Essential companion test since DHEA converts to testosterone, providing comprehensive androgen assessment for suspected hormonal imbalances.
Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP) — Valuable for evaluating overall metabolic health in patients with DHEA abnormalities, particularly those with PCOS or insulin resistance concerns.
Thyroid #1 Baseline Blood Test Panel — Recommended for comprehensive endocrine evaluation since thyroid disorders can present with similar symptoms to adrenal dysfunction and may coexist with DHEA abnormalities.
