High DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone): what it means
A DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) result above the normal range is considered high. Here is what a raised DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) can point to, and when it is worth discussing with a doctor.
Reference range: varies widely by age and sex; a weak adrenal androgen and steroid precursor — usually read alongside DHEA-S and other androgens rather than alone
Understand your full resultWhat a high DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) can mean
- An adrenal source of excess androgens — a high DHEA (with DHEA-S) points to the adrenal glands rather than the ovaries.
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia — an inherited enzyme problem that shifts steroid production.
- An adrenal tumour — a less common cause of markedly raised androgens.
- PCOS — can show a mildly raised adrenal androgen contribution in some women.
When to discuss with a doctor
DHEA is a specialist hormone test, not a routine one, and is almost always interpreted alongside DHEA-S and other androgens rather than on its own. It is most useful when a woman has signs of excess male-type hormones (acne, unwanted hair growth, irregular periods) and the question is whether the source is the adrenal glands or the ovaries, or when an adrenal condition such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia is being worked up. Because levels change with age, sex and time of day, the interpretation depends heavily on the clinical picture. Mediora.AI shows DHEA alongside DHEA-S, androstenedione, testosterone and cortisol so the steroid-pathway pattern is read together; the interpretation belongs with your doctor.
Keep reading
One value is a snapshot. Upload the full test to see every marker explained together.
Upload your test - freeMediora.AI is informational - interpretation, not a diagnosis. A single out-of-range value is common and often benign; always discuss decisions with your doctor.