From the Guidelines
High DHEA levels can be a sign of a serious underlying condition, such as adrenal tumors, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and prompt medical evaluation is crucial to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. According to the study 1, DHEA levels can be measured to rule out non-classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia, with abnormal findings indicating levels above 3800 ng/ml for women aged 20-29 and above 2700 ng/ml for women aged 30-39. Some possible causes of high DHEA include:
- Adrenal tumors, which may require surgical removal
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, which can be managed with corticosteroid medications like hydrocortisone or dexamethasone
- PCOS, which may be managed with hormonal birth control pills, anti-androgen medications like spironolactone, or metformin to improve insulin sensitivity High DHEA can cause symptoms like excessive hair growth, acne, irregular periods in women, and mood changes, and regular monitoring through blood tests is essential to track DHEA levels and treatment effectiveness. It is essential to note that DHEA is an androgen hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands that serves as a precursor to testosterone and estrogen, so elevated levels can disrupt normal hormonal balance throughout the body. The study 1 also highlights the importance of considering other potential causes of reproductive endocrine disorders, such as hypothyroidism, pituitary tumors, and the impact of certain medications on hormone levels. In clinical practice, it is crucial to approach high DHEA levels with a thorough evaluation, including a detailed medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests, to determine the underlying cause and develop an effective treatment plan.
From the Research
High DHEA Levels: Potential Problems
- High levels of DHEA can have various effects on the body, including increased androgenic activity, which can lead to side effects such as acne, increased sebum production, and changes in hair status 2.
- In women, high DHEA levels can also lead to increased levels of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, which can cause virilization symptoms such as deepening of the voice, excessive hair growth, and clitoral enlargement 3.
- Additionally, high DHEA levels have been linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as prostate cancer, although the evidence is still limited and inconclusive 4, 5.
- It is also worth noting that high DHEA levels can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia or adrenal tumors, which require proper diagnosis and treatment 6.
Potential Consequences of High DHEA Levels
- Increased risk of cardiovascular disease: High DHEA levels have been linked to increased cardiovascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and atherosclerosis 6.
- Increased risk of osteoporosis: High DHEA levels can lead to increased bone resorption and decreased bone density, which can increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures 3.
- Increased risk of cognitive decline: Some studies have suggested that high DHEA levels may be associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia, although the evidence is still limited and inconclusive 5.
Importance of Monitoring DHEA Levels
- Regular monitoring of DHEA levels is essential to ensure that they remain within a healthy range and to prevent potential problems associated with high DHEA levels 2, 6.
- Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential risks and consequences of high DHEA levels and take steps to monitor and manage them appropriately 4, 5.