DHEA-S
An adrenal hormone that serves as a precursor to testosterone and estrogen.
What is it
DHEA-sulfate is produced primarily by the adrenal glands. It is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone and serves as a precursor to androgens and estrogens.
Why it's measured
DHEA-S declines with age and has been studied in research on adrenal function, energy, and longevity.
Reference range
Standard laboratory reference
Age- and sex-dependent μg/dL
Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.
What results may indicate
Elevated
Warrants clinical evaluation — may indicate adrenal pathology.
Lower
Has been associated with adrenal insufficiency and is common with aging.
These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.
When it's measured
Used in adrenal evaluation and broader hormonal status assessment.
Related markers
Common questions
DHEA-sulfate is produced primarily by the adrenal glands. It is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone and serves as a precursor to androgens and estrogens.
It's one of the markers used to build a fuller picture of your health. On its own it tells you very little, so it's most informative when reviewed alongside related markers.
It's measured from a standard blood draw at Quest or LabCorp. DHEA-Sulfate is one of the markers included in the OPTML Apex Panel, where your results are read across systems and reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Reference ranges vary by laboratory, and a single value rarely tells the whole story. Review your result with a physician in the context of your other markers, symptoms, and history.
DHEA-Sulfate is one signal among many. Answer a few quick questions and we’ll point you to the panel that fits.
Measured in
A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Explore the Apex Panel →This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.