Dehydroepiandrosterone
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is an androgen hormone produced mainly by the adrenal glands that acts as a precursor to other sex hormones. Unlike its sulfated form DHEA-S, plain DHEA fluctuates more throughout the day.
Significant diurnal variation; morning specimen preferred. Less stable than DHEA-S for routine testing.
DHEA contributes to the pool from which your body makes testosterone and estrogen. Because its levels rise and fall over the day and decline with age, it gives insight into adrenal hormone production when interpreted carefully.
Elevated DHEA can reflect increased adrenal androgen activity, sometimes linked to PCOS or certain adrenal conditions, and less commonly to tumors. Given its natural daily swings, a single high value is best confirmed and interpreted clinically.
Lower DHEA may reflect aging or reduced adrenal output, and its meaning varies with your age, sex, and broader health context.
DHEA ranges are sex- and age-specific and levels change across the day, so timing and comparison group matter. Discuss your result with a clinician, who may prefer DHEA-S for a steadier reading.
Sources
Educational context only, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Reference ranges vary by lab, age and sex; always discuss your results with a clinician.