Your doctor may recommend a DHEA-sulfate serum test to make sure that your adrenal glands are working properly and that you have a normal amount of DHEA in your body. This test is commonly performed on women who have excessive hair growth or the appearance of male body characteristics.
A DHEA-sulfate serum test may also be done on children who are maturing at an abnormally early age. These are symptoms of a gland disorder called congenital adrenal hyperplasia , which causes increased levels of DHEA and the male sex hormone androgen.
A healthcare provider will swab the injection site with an antiseptic. In the case of a young child whose veins are smaller, the healthcare provider will use a sharp instrument called a lancet to puncture their skin.
Their blood is then collected into a small tube or onto a test strip. A bandage will be placed on the site to prevent further bleeding.
As with any blood tests , there are minimal risks of bruising , bleeding, or infection at the puncture site. In rare cases, the vein may become swollen after blood is drawn. You can treat this condition, known as phlebitis , by applying a warm compress several times per day. Normal results will vary depending on your sex and age. An abnormally high level of DHEA in the blood may be the result of a number of conditions, including the following:.
If your test shows that you have abnormal levels of DHEA, your doctor will administer a series of additional tests to determine the cause. In the case of an adrenal tumor, you may need surgery, radiation , or chemotherapy. If you have congenital adrenal hyperplasia or polycystic ovary syndrome, you may require hormone therapy to stabilize your level of DHEA.
Hormones like estrogen and testosterone are crucial to your heath, and a hormonal imbalance can cause symptoms like acne and weight gain. Learn more. Williams Textbook of Endocrinology.
Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; chap Editorial team. How the Test is Performed A blood sample is needed. How to Prepare for the Test No special preparation is necessary.
How the Test will Feel When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain. Why the Test is Performed This test is done to check the function of the two adrenal glands.
In men, the male hormone effect may not be important if testosterone level is normal. In women, DHEA contributes to normal libido and sexual satisfaction. DHEA may also have effects on the immune system. A tumor of the adrenal gland, which can be benign or be a cancer. A common problem in women younger than 50, called polycystic ovary syndrome.
Body changes of a girl in puberty happening earlier than normal. A decrease in DHEA sulfate may be due to: Adrenal gland disorders that produce lower than normal amounts of adrenal hormones, including adrenal insufficiency and Addison disease The pituitary gland not producing normal amounts of its hormones hypopituitarism Taking glucocorticoid medicines DHEA levels normally decline with age in both men and women.
Risks There is little risk involved with having your blood taken. Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight, but may include: Excessive bleeding Fainting or feeling lightheaded Multiple punctures to locate veins Hematoma blood buildup under the skin Infection a slight risk any time the skin is broken. DHEA supplements can also affect your results. Nutritional supplements aren't monitored in the U. Because of this, the purity and strength listed on the supplement package may be unreliable.
DHEA supplements are not advised because they have many side effects. Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking a DHEA supplement. Tell them if you take any supplement that is said to increase athletic performance.
Tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. This includes medicines that don't need a prescription and any illegal drugs you may use. Search Encyclopedia. Dehydroepiandrosterone and Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate Does this test have other names?
Why do I need this test? What do my test results mean? How is this test done? Does this test pose any risks?
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