Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) Blood Test, LC/MS
The Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) Blood Test measures DHT levels in the blood to help determine the cause of male pattern hair loss and prostate problems.
Description
What is DHT?
Dihydrotestosterone, also called DHT, is primarily produced in the prostate gland, hair follicles, and adrenal glands. It is an androgen made through the conversion of testosterone. Androgens are part of the biology of gender and are responsible for stimulating and controlling the development and maintenance of masculine characteristics. DHT is more potent than testosterone, while testosterone is five-ten times more potent than adrenal androgens. While DHT is best known for causing male pattern hair loss and prostate problems, it is also crucial to virilization and mitigates estrogen's effects in men.
What is the purpose of this test?
Order this DHT Blood Test to help identify the cause of male pattern hair loss and prostate problems. In addition, this test may help determine the cause of excess androgen production that results in certain health conditions, such as virilization, infertility, hirsutism, or amenorrhea.
When should I order a DHT Blood Test?
Individuals may order this test if they have experienced male pattern hair loss, prostate problems, and virilization symptoms. Additionally, this test may be ordered if a healthcare provider wants to evaluate the adrenal gland function.
This test may be helpful for individuals experiencing the following symptoms:
- Male pattern hair loss
- Prostate problems (Prostate enlargement)
- No or irregular menstrual periods
- Infertility
- A deeper voice
- Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
- Male pattern baldness
- Muscularity
- Acne
- Growth of the Adam's apple
- Decreased breast size
- Ambiguous genitalia
