Definition of DHEA-sulfate - serum:

DHEA-sulfate blood test measures the amount of DHEA-sulfate in the blood.

How the test is performed:

Blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic, and an elastic band is placed around the upper arm to cause the vein to swell with blood.

A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an airtight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the band is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.

In infants or young children, the area is cleansed with antiseptic and punctured with a sharp needle or lancet. The blood will be collected in a small glass tube (pipette), on a slide, onto a test strip, or into a small container. A cotton pad or bandage may be applied to the puncture site if bleeding does not stop quickly.

How to prepare for the test:

No special preparation is necessary. However, be sure to tell your health care provider if you are taking any vitamin preparations or health supplements that happen to contain DHEA or DHEA-sulfate.

How the test will feel:

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or sting. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed:

This test is used to evaluate the function of the adrenal glands. DHEA-sulfate is a weak androgen (male hormone) produced by the adrenal cortex in both men and women. The adrenal gland is one of the major sources of androgens in women (the other being the ovaries, which produce testosterone).

DHEA-sulfate is measured in women showing symptoms of virilism (male body characteristics) or hirsutism (excessive hair growth). It is also done in children who are maturing too early (precocious puberty).