Description
Dehydroepiandrosterone is an inactive precursor steroid secreted in large amounts by the adrenal gland. Adrenal secretion of DHEA and DHEA-S increases during adrenarche (a stage of maturation of the cortex of the human adrenal glands) in children at the age of 6-8 years. Maximal values are achieved between 20 -30 years of age. Thereafter, serum levels decrease markedly. In women, the role of DHEA and DHEA-S in the peripheral formation of estrogens is even more important than the situation in men for androgens. In men, androgen Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulphate (DHEA-S) Male, Serum secretion by the testes continues at a high level through life while, in women, oestrogen secretion by the ovaries completely ceases at menopause, thus leaving the adrenals as the only source of sex steroids. See Also 17-Hydroxy-Pregnenolone, Serum
Indications
DHEA is one of the first androgens to increase significantly at the onset on adrenarche. Levels increase throughout puberty until adulthood. In females, levels drop off sharply after menopause. DHEA may distinguish adrenal causes of over androgenisation from gonadal causes.
Sample Type, Quantity & Conditions
1 ml Serum 1 ml K3-EDTA or Na, Li, NH4+-Heparin, Sodium Citrate, Potassium Oxalate, or Sodium Fluoride Plasma Stability: 2 Days at 2-8 °C 2 Months at -20 °C
Special Precautions
Freeze only once.
Normal Range
10-14 Years: 24.4-247 µg/dL 0.66-6.70 µmol/L 15-19 Years: 70.2-492 µg/dL 1.91-13.4 µmol/L 20-24 Years: 211-492 µg/dL 5.73-13.4 µmol/L 25-34 Years: 160-449 µg/dL 4.34-12.2 µmol/L 35-44 Years: 88.9-427 µg/dL 2.41-11.6 µmol/L 45-54 Years: 44.3-331 µg/dL 1.20-8.98 µmol/L 55-64 Years: 51.7-295 µg/dL 1.40-8.01 µmol/L 65-74 Years: 33.6-249 µg/dL 0.91-6.76 µmol/L ≥ 75 Years: 16.2-123 µg/dL 0.44-3.34 µmol/L
