Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) · high result
What does a high Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) mean?
Short answer
High DHT reflects more conversion of testosterone by 5-alpha-reductase or a high testosterone supply. In men it usually accompanies testosterone therapy (especially gels), anabolic steroids or DHEA supplements and is linked to pattern hair loss, acne and prostate growth; in women a high DHT points to PCOS, congenital adrenal hyperplasia or an androgen-producing source.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
What is the normal range for Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)?
- Male, age 18+: 30.0 – 85.0 ng/dL
- Female, age 18+: 4.00 – 22.0 ng/dL
Full reference table, citations and testing options: Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) biomarker page.
What are the common causes of high Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)?
- Testosterone therapy (transdermal gels raise DHT most), anabolic steroids, DHEA supplements
- High 5-alpha-reductase activity (genetic)
- Women: PCOS, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, androgen-secreting tumors (rare)
What symptoms go with high Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)?
- Men: scalp hair thinning, acne, oily skin, prostate enlargement symptoms
- Women: acne, facial hair, scalp hair loss, irregular periods
What do clinicians usually check next?
- Total and free testosterone, SHBG
- Women: DHEA-S, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, ultrasound if PCOS suspected
- Men on therapy: PSA and prostate symptoms review with the prescriber
Follow-up tests available at TestWell: PSA, Total ($28.99), PSA, Free & Total ($48.99), SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) ($34.99).
How do you recheck Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)?
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 Hair Health Panel | Panel · 19 tests | $499.99 | No | 4–7 business days |
| DHT (Dihydrotestosterone) | Test | $51.99 | No | 4–7 business days |
Common questions
Does high DHT cause hair loss?
DHT drives follicle miniaturization in people genetically prone to pattern hair loss; the level alone doesn't predict it. That's why 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors work only for some — and they change lab values too.
Sources
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.