Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S)

CPT Code(s):
82627

Turnaround Time:
4 hours

Specimen Requirements

Preferred Specimen:
Serum

Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL

Transport Container:
Serum Separator Tube (SST) or Red Top Tube

Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature

Collection Instructions:
Allow blood to clot completely prior to centrifugation. Separate serum from cells within 45 minutes of collection.

Rejection Criteria:
Citrate or Fluoride plasma specimen; gross hemolysis; lipemia; improper labeling

Stability Criteria

Room Temperature:
4 hours

Refrigerated:
6 days

Frozen:
30 days

Clinical Significance

The DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) test holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in the field of endocrinology and hormone assessment. It measures the level of DHEA-S, a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, in a patient's blood.

The clinical significance and diagnostic use of the DHEA-S test include:

1. Evaluation of Adrenal Function: The DHEA-S test is primarily used to assess adrenal gland function. DHEA-S is the most abundant steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, and its measurement provides insights into adrenal hormone production. Abnormal DHEA-S levels can indicate dysfunction of the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency or hyperfunction.

2. Diagnosis of Adrenal Disorders: The DHEA-S test aids in the diagnosis of certain adrenal disorders. Abnormally high levels of DHEA-S can indicate conditions such as adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal tumors, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Conversely, low DHEA-S levels may be indicative of adrenal insufficiency or adrenal dysfunction associated with conditions like Addison's disease.

3. Assessment of Androgen Status: DHEA-S is a precursor hormone for the production of androgens, including testosterone. The DHEA-S test provides indirect information about androgen levels in the body. Elevated DHEA-S levels may suggest excessive androgen production, which can be seen in conditions like congenital adrenal hyperplasia or adrenal androgen-secreting tumors.

4. Evaluation of Hormonal Imbalances: The DHEA-S test is used in the evaluation of hormonal imbalances, particularly in women with symptoms such as hirsutism (excessive hair growth), menstrual irregularities, or infertility. DHEA-S levels can help identify underlying causes, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or adrenal androgen excess, contributing to these symptoms.

5. Monitoring Treatment Response: The DHEA-S test is valuable in monitoring the response to treatment for adrenal disorders or hormonal imbalances. Regular monitoring of DHEA-S levels helps assess the effectiveness of therapy and guide dosage adjustments. For example, in women with PCOS, decreasing DHEA-S levels indicate improved hormonal balance and treatment response.

6. Research and Endocrine Studies: The DHEA-S test is also utilized in research and endocrine studies to investigate the role of DHEA-S in various health conditions and to understand its impact on overall hormonal balance, aging, and disease processes.

In summary, the DHEA-S test has specific clinical significance in evaluating adrenal function, diagnosing adrenal disorders, assessing androgen status, evaluating hormonal imbalances, monitoring treatment response, and supporting research in the field of endocrinology. By measuring DHEA-S levels in the blood, this test provides valuable information for clinical decision-making, enabling healthcare providers to assess adrenal function, diagnose underlying conditions, guide treatment interventions, and improve patient care outcomes related to hormone imbalances and adrenal disorders.