Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S)

Introduction

Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) is an excellent indicator of adrenal hormone production. Although DHEA-S itself only has weak hormonal activity, it can be metabolized into more active androgens (e.g. testosterone) and estrogens (e.g. estradiol). DHEA-S also has neurosteroid activity, meaning it can influence brain function. Abnormal DHEA-S levels can affect age of puberty, menstruation, muscle mass, aging, and sex drive, and also increase the risk of diabetes, osteoporosis, and dementia.

Pricing

$49

How to order a test

Synonyms

• Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Sulfate
• DHEA-SO₄

What is Included?

Measurement of DHEA-S in a blood sample by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassays.

Turnaround Time

1 – 3 business days
The turnaround time is not guaranteed. The average turnaround time is 1 – 3 business days from the date that the sample arrives at the laboratory. Shipping time for the sample is not included. Additional time is required if the case requires confirmatory or reflex testing, or if the sample is insufficient, or if a recollection is required.

Related Documents

Preparation Before Specimen Collection

None

Specimen Type

Blood

Volume

50 μL in a microtainer

Container

Microtainer (regular blood tube)

Collection Method

This test requires a blood sample from a finger prick. All supplies for sample collection are provided in the kit.

1. First wash and dry hands. Warm hands aid in blood collection.
2. Clean the finger prick site with the alcohol swab and allow to air dry.
3. Use the provided lancet to puncture the skin in one quick, continuous and deliberate stroke.
4. Wipe away the first drop of blood.
5. Massage hand and finger to increase blood flow to the puncture site. Angle arm and hand downwards to facilitate blood collection on the fingertip.
6. Drip blood into the microtainer tube.
7. Dispose of all sharps safely and return sample to the laboratory in the provided prepaid return shipping envelope.

NOTES: Avoid squeezing or ‘milking’ the finger excessively. If more blood is required and blood flow stops, perform a second skin puncture on another finger. Do not touch the fingertip.

Specimen Storage

Maintain specimen at temperatures between 2°C and 30°C during storage and transport.

Specimen Stability

Blood samples can be refrigerated or kept at room temperature for up to 7 days.

Causes for Rejection

• Incorrect or incomplete patient identification
• Incorrect specimen collection
• Inappropriate storage and transport conditions
• Incorrect specimen volume

Purpose

To measure DHEA-S levels in a blood sample to aid in the investigation of andrenal activity.

Limitations

• This report is not intended for use in medico-legal applications.
• These results should be interpreted in conjunction with other laboratory and clinical information.
• Correct specimen collection and handling is required for optimal assay performance.
• False results may occur in specimens from individuals that have received preparations of mouse monoclonal antibodies for diagnosis or therapy. Additional clinical or diagnostic information may be required for these specimens.
• Heterophilic antibodies present in the tested blood sample may interfere with this assay.
• Elevated DHEA-S levels may occur in individuals with adrenal tumors or congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
• Rheumatoid factor present in the blood sample may interfere with this assay.

Methodology

Chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (Alinity i DHEA-S assay)

Reference Intervals

These reference ranges were obtained from Rifai N, Horvath AR, & Wittwer C. (2018). Tietz textbook of clinical chemistry and molecular diagnostics (Sixth edition.). St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier.