Lab marker · Low

Low DHEA-Sulfate (DHEA-S): what it means

A DHEA-Sulfate (DHEA-S) result below the normal range is considered low. Here is what a reduced DHEA-Sulfate (DHEA-S) can point to, and when it is worth discussing with a doctor.

Reference range: Age- and sex-dependent; peaks in 20s, declines to ~30-50 μg/dL by 70s

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What a low DHEA-Sulfate (DHEA-S) can mean

  • Adrenal insufficiency / Addison's disease — co-low with cortisol and aldosterone.
  • Hypopituitarism — low ACTH → low adrenal androgens.
  • Chronic illness, malnutrition — non-specific suppression.
  • Normal ageing — values in 70s match what would be 'low' in 20s.
  • Long-term oral contraceptives, glucocorticoids — suppression.

When to discuss with a doctor

DHEA-S is ordered when a woman has new hirsutism, alopecia, acne, irregular menses, or signs of virilisation. A value above 700 μg/dL or rising rapidly warrants imaging for an adrenal mass. Modestly raised values are more often PCOS-spectrum than adrenal disease. Mediora.AI shows the value against age + sex band; androgen-excess workup is endocrinology + gynaecology.

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Mediora.AI is informational - interpretation, not a diagnosis. A single out-of-range value is common and often benign; always discuss decisions with your doctor.