From the Guidelines
A DHEA blood test can inform you about the presence of biochemical hyperandrogenism, particularly in the context of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), as evidenced by a systematic review and diagnostic meta-analysis published in 2025 1. This test measures the levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfated form (DHEA-S) in your bloodstream, which can indicate if your adrenal glands are functioning properly. Some key points to consider about DHEA blood tests include:
- Abnormally high DHEA levels might indicate adrenal tumors, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women, as suggested by studies examining serum DHEAS in the diagnosis of biochemical hyperandrogenism 1.
- Low levels could suggest adrenal insufficiency, Addison's disease, or hypopituitarism.
- The test is particularly useful for investigating symptoms of excess androgens in women, such as excessive hair growth, acne, or irregular periods.
- Normal DHEA levels vary by age and sex, with levels naturally peaking in early adulthood and declining with age.
- For accurate results, the test is typically performed in the morning when hormone levels are highest, and you may need to fast beforehand.
- Some medications can affect results, so it is essential to inform your healthcare provider about any supplements or medications you're taking. The diagnostic accuracy of DHEA measurement in PCOS has been evaluated in a systematic review and diagnostic meta-analysis, providing evidence-based guidelines for its use 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
INDICATIONS: Temporarily supports the body to rebalance Adrenal and DHEA output. Symptoms of imbalanced Adrenal and DHEA may include: low energy, depression, anxiety, dry eyes, skin, and hair, loss of head hair. The DHEA blood test would tell you the levels of DHEA in the blood, which can help identify if there is an imbalance in Adrenal and DHEA output, potentially indicating symptoms such as:
- Low energy
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Dry eyes, skin, and hair
- Loss of head hair 2
From the Research
DHEA Blood Test Results
A DHEA blood test can provide information on the levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in the blood. The results of this test can be used to:
- Diagnose adrenal insufficiency, as low levels of DHEA can indicate primary or central adrenal insufficiency 3
- Monitor treatment of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), as DHEA levels can indicate the effectiveness of treatment 4
- Evaluate the need for DHEA replacement therapy in patients with adrenal insufficiency, as DHEA can have beneficial effects on health perception, vitality, and fatigue 5
Interpretation of DHEA Blood Test Results
The interpretation of DHEA blood test results depends on various factors, including:
- Age and sex of the patient, as DHEA levels vary with age and sex 6
- Presence of adrenal insufficiency or CAH, as DHEA levels can be affected by these conditions 3, 4
- Use of DHEA replacement therapy, as this can affect DHEA levels in the blood 5
Clinical Significance of DHEA Blood Test Results
The clinical significance of DHEA blood test results includes: