Dehydroepiandrosterone is a 17-Ketosteroid produced primarily by the adrenal gland by side chain cleavage of 17-Hydroxy Pregnenolone. It is reversibly converted to Dehydroepiandrosterone-Sulfate and Androstenediol. It is also converted to Androstenedione. It is excreted in the urine as Sulfate and Glucuronide conjugates and unconjugated (Free) forms.
Free DHEA urine is excreted into the urine primarily from Free (unbound) blood DHEA. DHEA urine is one of the first androgens to increase significantly at the onset of adrenache. Levels increase throughout puberty until adulthood. In females, levels drop off sharply after menopause. DHEA may distinguish adrenal causes of overandrogenization from gonadal causes.
Low free DHEA in male urine signifies a potential hormonal imbalance and may have implications for overall health and well-being.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfate conjugate (DHEAs) are prohormones primarily produced by the adrenal glands, with some secretion from the testes and ovaries as well. DHEA plays a crucial role in the synthesis of sex steroid hormones, including androgens and estrogens. It is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone in humans.
DHEA levels in the body change with age. Studies have shown that the amount of DHEA decreases with advancing age, declining by about 2-3% per year. In healthy individuals, DHEA levels typically peak in young adulthood and then gradually decline over time.
Low DHEA levels in men can lead to a variety of symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances, similar to low testosterone (Low-T). These symptoms may include fatigue, loss of strength and muscle mass, anxiety, depression, reduced mental function, decreased sex drive, impaired immune function, and an increased risk of heart disease and osteoporosis.
DHEA also plays a significant role in maintaining male characteristics and masculinity, as it serves as a precursor to androgen hormones, including testosterone.
In addition to aging, other factors can contribute to low DHEA levels, such as dysfunctional pituitary gland, adrenal gland disorders (e.g., Addison's disease), and glucocorticoid use.
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Elevated levels of urine Free DHEA are found in third trimester pregnancies as DHEA becomes a direct precursor to Estrogen formulation. Free DHEA is excreted at a fairly constant rate throughout the day and gives a good integrated measurement of adrenal activity and function.
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11b-Hydroxyandrosterone, 11b-Hydroxyetiocholanolone, 2-Methoxyestrone, 5-alpha-Androstanediol, Allo-Tetrahydrocortisol, Alpha-Pregnanediol, Alpha-Pregnanediol / Beta-Pregnanediol Ratio, Beta-Pregnanediol, Cortisol/Cortione 11B-HSD II, Cortisol: Metabolite Ratio, E Quotient, Free DHEA, Tetrahydrodeoxycortisol
