From the Guidelines
The DHEAS level of 2.6 umol/L is within the normal reference range for adults, and no specific treatment or intervention is needed for this result. DHEAS (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate) is an adrenal androgen that serves as a precursor for testosterone and estrogen production. Normal DHEAS levels indicate proper adrenal function. This hormone naturally declines with age, and levels can be affected by various conditions including adrenal disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome, and certain medications.
Key Considerations
- If this test was part of a broader hormonal evaluation, it should be interpreted alongside other test results and clinical symptoms.
- The diagnosis of biochemical hyperandrogenism in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) involves assessing multiple androgens, including DHEAS, due to the variability in potency, metabolism, and tissue-specific effects of different androgens 1.
- While this specific value doesn't require intervention, any persistent symptoms such as fatigue, irregular menstruation, or changes in secondary sexual characteristics should be discussed with a healthcare provider even if DHEAS levels are normal, as hormonal imbalances can involve multiple pathways.
Clinical Implications
- For patients with primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI), DHEA replacement therapy may be considered to address androgen deficiency, with dosing guided by serum DHEA sulphate (DHEAS) levels, among other factors 1.
- However, the long-term effects of DHEA replacement therapy are not well understood, and such treatment should be approached with caution.
- The recent systematic review and diagnostic meta-analysis aimed to inform evidence-based guidelines for the diagnosis of PCOS, highlighting the need for accurate androgen measurement methods, including the assessment of DHEAS 1.
From the Research
Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEAS) Levels
- A DHEAS level of 2.6 umol/L is provided, but without a reference range, it is difficult to interpret this value.
- According to 2, DHEAS is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone in humans, and its levels decline with age.
- Low levels of DHEAS have been associated with various health issues, including age-related diseases, cardiovascular disease, and all-cause mortality 2.
Health Implications of DHEAS Levels
- DHEAS has been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, improving physical and psychological well-being, muscle strength, and bone density 2.
- In adrenal insufficiency, DHEA supplementation can restore DHEA/DHEAS levels, reduce total cholesterol, and improve well-being and insulin sensitivity 2.
- DHEAS levels have also been linked to sexual satisfaction and fertility in women 2, 3.
- Low DHEAS levels have been observed in women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), suggesting a potential link between DHEAS and sexual functioning 4.
Factors Influencing DHEAS Levels
- The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) tone can influence adrenal steroid secretion, including DHEAS 5.
- Beta-adrenergic antagonists can increase DHEAS secretion and inhibit ACTH secretion 5.
- Age, adrenal insufficiency, and certain diseases (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease) can also impact DHEAS levels 2, 6.