Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEAS) Test

The dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) test measures the amount of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate in the blood. The test is also known as the DHEAS test or DHEA-SO4 test.

DHEAS is a steroid hormone (chemical messenger) produced by the adrenal glands, which are small glands located above the kidneys. It helps the body make important sex hormones, such as testosterone (in males) and oestrogen (in females), and contributes to growth and development during puberty. A DHEAS test allows doctors to determine whether the adrenal glands are functioning properly. The test can also help identify conditions related to excess or deficient adrenal hormone production, such as some tumours, disorders of the testicles and ovaries, and causes of early or late puberty.

The DHEAS blood test is recommended in suspected cases of hormone imbalance or a problem with the adrenal glands.

People with symptoms of high DHEAS levels:

In women, symptoms may include:

• Acne breakouts
• Irregular or missed periods
• Voice becoming deeper than usual
• Increased facial and body hair growth
• Increase in muscle size or strength

People with symptoms of low DHEAS levels:

In both men and women, low levels of DHEAS may be associated with:

• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• Unexplained weight loss
• Strong cravings for salty food
• Signs of dehydration
• Nausea and vomiting

Age-related decreases in DHEAS levels may cause symptoms such as:

• Reduced sex drive
• Thinning of vaginal tissue in women
• Erectile dysfunction in men

The test is also highly advised for the following categories of people:

• Women with hirsutism (abnormal growth of facial or body hair): DHEAS levels are found to be increased in women suffering from hirsutism.
• Individuals with adrenal disorders: People with adrenal gland disorders should get a DHEAS test if an adrenal tumour (abnormal mass) is suspected. The test helps doctors assess how well the adrenal gland works and is often used along with a cortisol test, which measures a hormone made by the adrenal gland.
• Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): This is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS have elevated DHEAS levels.
• Babies born with ambiguous genitalia, to look for a potential underlying cause.
• To assess the onset of puberty in both males and females.

Although the DHEAS test alone cannot diagnose any disorder, it can be combined with other sex hormone tests to help identify and monitor certain conditions, such as:

• Tumours of the adrenal gland – The tumours may be benign (non-cancerous) or cancerous.
• Masculine features in females – The DHEAS test can help investigate why some women and girls develop male-like physical changes, such as increased body hair and a deeper voice.
• Testicular disorders – These are conditions that affect the testes (organs responsible for producing male hormones and sperm). They often become swollen or infected; in rare instances, they may develop into cancer.
• Ovarian disorders – This includes ovarian cancer, ovarian cysts, PCOS, primary ovarian insufficiency (the ovaries stop functioning before the age of 40), and ovarian tumours.

What to Expect Before the DHEAS Test

No fasting is required for a standalone DHEAS test. You can eat and drink normally. However, if it is part of a broader package that includes fasting tests, your doctor may advise fasting for 8-12 hours. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours before the test, as intense physical activity can temporarily raise DHEAS levels and affect interpretation. Always inform your doctor about any ongoing medications.

What to Expect During the Blood Collection

A phlebotomist cleans the skin with an antiseptic, then places an elastic band around your upper arm to make the veins easier to access. A small needle is inserted into the vein; you may feel a brief pinch. Blood is collected into a labelled tube in under a minute.

What to Expect After the DHEAS Test

A small cotton swab and bandage are placed over the site to stop any minor bleeding. You can return to normal activities immediately. Minor bruising is normal and disappears quickly. If dizzy, sit and rest for a few minutes.

In the DHEAS sulphate test, the primary parameter being measured is:

• The level of DHEAS in the blood.

The normal range for the DHEAS hormone test is shown in the table below.

Note: The normal range may vary slightly depending on the laboratory and individual health conditions.

The table below provides a general interpretation of the DHEAS blood test results based on whether the levels are low or high.

Note:

• Results should always be interpreted by the doctor along with symptoms, age, sex, medical history, and other blood tests.

Like any other medical test, this test also has some risks and limitations.

Risks:

• The DHEAS test is generally safe and involves minimal risk. You may feel slight pain when the needle is inserted or mild bruising afterwards, which usually resolves spontaneously.

Limitations:

• A DHEAS test result alone is not enough to confirm a diagnosis. It is often used alongside other sex hormone tests to help identify the underlying cause of symptoms.
• DHEAS levels may change due to natural hormonal changes in the body, especially during puberty, as well as from certain medications and hormone supplements.

Depending on your symptoms and results, your doctor may recommend the following tests to better understand your condition:

• Testosterone tests
• Oestrogen tests
• Anti–mullerian hormone test
• Adrenocorticotropic hormone test
• Aldosterone test
• Autoantibody testing
• Cortisol test
• Renin test
• Brain MRI
• Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) test
• Growth hormone tests
• IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1) test
• Luteinising hormone (LH) test