DHEA

DHEA can be converted through several biochemical steps into androgens and estrogens in different tissues. In blood, much of it circulates as DHEA sulfate, written DHEA-S, which is more abundant and generally more stable than unconjugated DHEA. The two laboratory labels are related but should not be treated as identical measurements.

Concentrations vary with age, sex, time, adrenal physiology, medication use, and laboratory method. A DHEA-S measurement may be considered when evaluating particular patterns of androgen production or adrenal function. A high or low value has multiple possible explanations and does not identify one condition without history, examination, and other relevant tests.

DHEA is also sold in some jurisdictions as a supplement, but availability does not make it appropriate for every person. It is hormonally active and can interact with medical conditions, medications, and other hormone-related decisions. This definition explains its place in the hormone pathway and does not recommend supplementation, testing, or replacement.

DHEA and DHEA-S also differ in how long they remain in circulation and how strongly they vary across the day. DHEA-S is often selected for laboratory assessment because its pattern is more stable. That practical choice does not make it a direct measure of every downstream androgen or estrogen produced in tissues.