Dehydroepiandrosterone
DHEA
Description
"Dehydroepiandrosterone" (DHEA) test measures levels of DHEA, a hormone produced by your adrenal glands that supports estrogen and testosterone production, influencing energy, mood, and overall well-being. Doctors order it to assess adrenal function or investigate conditions like adrenal insufficiency or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). High DHEA might indicate PCOS or hormone imbalance, while low levels can suggest adrenal issues or natural age-related decline. The results help guide treatment, including dietary changes, hormone therapy, or lifestyle adjustments.
Test Category
Hormones
Procedure
Invasive
Sample Type
Blood – Serum
Units
Picograms Per Milliliter | Picomoles Per Liter
Procedure Category
Blood Draw
Test Group
Adrenal Stress Group
Test Group Description
Adrenal Stress Group: Tests in this group evaluate adrenal gland function, specifically stress hormones like cortisol, for a comprehensive understanding of adrenal health.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 34.00–496.00 pg/mL
SI Unit: 118–1,721 pmol/L
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 106.00–300.00 pg/mL
SI Unit: 367–1,041 pmol/L
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Increased levels may indicate:
Adrenal cancer
Adrenal tumors
Alcoholism
Chronic stress
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (Genetic disorder affecting adrenal gland function)
Cushing's disease (Hypersecretion of cortisol due to pituitary tumor)
Excessive dietary supplementation
...
Key Reasons For Testing
Hormonal Balance: Evaluates DHEA levels to assess adrenal and endocrine health.
Aging Marker: Tracks age-related declines in DHEA, offering insights into longevity and interventions.
Stress Resilience: Examines DHEA’s role in modulating cortisol and supporting stress response.
Sexual Health: Provides insights into libido and hormone-related disorders.
Metabolic Health: Assesses risks for obesity, diabetes, and fat metabolism issues.
Bone Health: Evaluates DHEA’s impact on bone density and osteoporosis risk.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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