Test Overview
Clinical Utility
DHEA is a weakly androgenic steroid that is useful when congenital adrenal hyperplasia is suspected. It is also useful in determining the source of androgens in hyperandrogenic conditions, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome and adrenal tumors.
Method
Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry
Aliases/Synonyms
Unconjugated DHEA
Specimen
Specimen Type
Serum
Plasma (EDTA)
Plasma (Li or Na heparin)
Containers
Preferred Containers
Red top (no additive)
Acceptable Containers
Lavender top (EDTA); Green top (lithium or sodium heparin)
Volume
Sample Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Patient Preparation
Overnight fasting is preferred.
Collection & Handling
Handling Information
Store and send frozen.
Stability
| Ambient | Refrigerated | Frozen |
|---|---|---|
| 6 hours | 72 hours | 90 days |
Rejection Criteria
| Criteria | Specification |
|---|---|
| Hemolysis | Gross |
| Specimen | Gel separator tube |
Performance & Interpretation
Turnaround Time
10 days
Results
Name
Units
Reference Range
Conversion
-
DHEA, UNCONJUGATEDng/dLAdult Males: 147 - 1760
Females:
Pre-Menopausal
Mid Follicular: 385 - 1143
Surge: 345 - 2030
Mid Luteal: 414 - 1295
Post-Menopausal: 77 - 851
Pediatric
1 - 11 months: ≤ 327
1 year: ≤ 269
2 years: ≤ 244
3 years: ≤ 253
4 years: ≤ 297
5 years: ≤ 376
6 years: ≤ 487
7 years: ≤ 616
8 years: 34 -744
9 years: 45 - 854
10 years: 56 - 950
11 years: 67 - 1041
12 years: 78 - 1120
13 years: 86 - 1176
14 years: 90 - 1207
15 years: 95 - 1241
16 years: 103 - 1294
17 years: 113 - 1360
Referral Location
Out-of-Country
Interface & Setup
HL7 Interface Codes
| Order Code | Result Name | Result Codes | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| DHEAQST SP | DHEA, UNCONJUGATED | 65264 | ng/dL |
Test Version
Last Updated
2025-11-19