What It Is
Dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEA-S) is a steroid hormone produced mainly by
the adrenal cortex, the outer part of the two adrenal glands that are located just
above the kidneys. Though it's an androgen (a male-type sex hormone), it's produced
by both males and females.
DHEA-S serves as a building block for making the male sex hormone testosterone
and the female sex hormone estrogen. A DHEA-S test measures the amount of the hormone
in the bloodstream.
DHEA-S levels are high in newborn babies, then quickly drop. They rise again during
puberty, when they play an important role in triggering the development of pubic and
underarm hair.
Why It's Done
Doctors may order a DHEA-S test when they want to check the functioning of the
adrenal glands, as in the case of a child who shows signs of DHEA-S overproduction.
For both boys and girls, this may mean the appearance of puberty-related characteristics
earlier than expected (precocious puberty), particularly the early appearance of pubic
or underarm hair.
Significant overproduction or DHEA-S in a girl may result in the development of
masculine characteristics such as facial hair, deeper voice, acne, increased muscle
mass, and irregular or absence of menstrual periods. An excess of DHEA-S may be caused
by congenital adrenal hyperplasia (a condition present from birth in which the adrenal
glands make too much androgen and not enough of other steroid hormones) or some other
adrenal problems. Low levels of DHEA-S may be present if the adrenal glands are damaged
or diseased.
The test may also be used, with other hormone tests, to rule out certain diseases
of the testes or ovaries because DHEA-S is also produced (normally in small amounts)
by these organs. The test can also help diagnose damage or disease of the pituitary
gland because adrenal production of DHEA-S is ultimately controlled by pituitary hormones.
Preparation
No special preparations are needed for this test. In adolescent girls, doctors
may request that the test be performed either before or after a menstrual period,
as menstruation may affect hormone levels.
On the day of the test, having your child wear a T-shirt or short-sleeved shirt
can make things easier for your child and the technician who will be drawing the blood.