DHEA

Elevated DHEA levels may indicate increased adrenal androgen production. DHEA is a key precursor hormone produced by the adrenal glands that can be converted into testosterone and estrogen. When levels rise above the reference range (106–300 pg/mL), it may suggest adrenal hyperactivity or increased androgen synthesis. Higher levels can be seen in conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal tumors, or excessive supplementation with DHEA. Elevated DHEA may contribute to symptoms related to androgen excess, including acne, oily skin, hair loss, or increased body hair in some individuals. When DHEA is elevated, healthcare providers often evaluate other adrenal and sex hormones—including DHEA-S, testosterone, and cortisol—to determine whether the increase reflects normal hormonal variation or an underlying endocrine imbalance.

Low levels of DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) may indicate reduced adrenal hormone production. DHEA is produced primarily by the adrenal glands and serves as a precursor for important hormones such as testosterone and estrogen. When levels fall below the reference range (106–300 pg/mL), it may reflect adrenal insufficiency, chronic stress, aging-related decline, or suppression of adrenal function from medications such as glucocorticoids. Low DHEA levels have been associated with fatigue, reduced muscle mass, low libido, decreased resilience to stress, and impaired immune function. In some individuals, low DHEA may also correlate with hormonal imbalance or reduced androgen production. If levels are low, clinicians may evaluate adrenal health, stress load, nutritional status, and other hormone levels such as cortisol, testosterone, and DHEA-S to better understand the underlying cause.

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, is the precursor for estrogens and testosterone, and is therefore normally present in significantly greater quantities than all the other steroid hormones. It is mostly found in the circulation in the form of its sulfate ester, DHEA sulfate (DHEA-S), levels of which in saliva are higher and more stable than those of DHEA. Its production is highest in the late teens to early 20s and declines gradually with age in both men and women.