DHEA-S · high result
What does a high DHEA-S mean?
Short answer
High DHEA-S in women is most often part of PCOS; markedly high levels (more than about twice the upper limit) raise concern for an adrenal tumor or non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia and need prompt evaluation. In men, high DHEA-S is usually from supplements. DHEA-S is stable across the day and cycle, which makes it a reliable adrenal androgen marker.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
When does this result need same-day care?
- Rapidly progressive virilization (deepening voice, clitoral enlargement) with a high DHEA-S — prompt evaluation
What is the normal range for DHEA-S?
- Male, age 18–39: 160 – 449 mcg/dL
- Male, age 40–59: 89.0 – 360 mcg/dL
- Male, age 60+: 28.0 – 175 mcg/dL
- Female, age 18–39: 84.0 – 378 mcg/dL
- Female, age 40–59: 32.0 – 240 mcg/dL
- Female, age 60+: 26.0 – 200 mcg/dL
Full reference table, citations and testing options: DHEA-S biomarker page.
What are the common causes of high DHEA-S?
- PCOS (mild to moderate elevation)
- DHEA supplements
- Non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia
- Adrenal tumors (rare; usually very high levels)
- Cushing's disease
What symptoms go with high DHEA-S?
- Women: acne, excess facial/body hair, irregular periods, scalp hair thinning
- Men: usually none
What do clinicians usually check next?
- Total and free testosterone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone
- Morning cortisol or Cushing's screening if other features fit
- Adrenal imaging when levels are very high
Follow-up tests available at TestWell: Cortisol (AM) ($26.99), Colon Cancer Screening Test (FIT) ($59.99), Cortisol ($32.99).
How do you recheck DHEA-S?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Men's Hormone Panel | Panel · 7 tests | $199.99 | No | 3–5 business days |
| Women's Hormone Panel | Panel · 11 tests | $239.99 | No | 3–5 business days |
| Healthy Aging Panel | Panel · 15 tests | $299.99 | Yes | 3–5 business days |
| DHEA-Sulfate | Test | $32.99 | No | 1–3 business days |
Common questions
Does high DHEA-S mean PCOS?
It supports it when periods are irregular and androgen symptoms are present, but PCOS is a clinical diagnosis. Very high levels point elsewhere and need imaging.
Sources
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.