Pacific · Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Sulfate Test
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Sulfate Test in California
Below is a plain-language overview of the dehydroepiandrosterone (dhea) sulfate test. The DHEA Sulfate test measures a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. It helps evaluate adrenal function and is often used when certain hormonal symptoms are present.
Lab requirements in California
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Sulfate Test in CA. Review each item and confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Physician's order
- Included. A physician's order is required for lab testing and is provided for you by our partner's physicians — no referral from your own doctor is needed.
- Fasting
- Some tests require fasting or avoiding certain foods or drinks beforehand. You will be informed when you order — confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Preparation
- Preparation instructions can vary, so follow the specific directions provided by the collection laboratory. This may include timing the test to certain days of your cycle or avoiding…
- Sample & visit
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Identification
- Bring the lab requisition form from your account. The collection lab may also ask for a government-issued photo ID.
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Availability
- Our partner lab does not serve ND, RI, NY, NJ, MD or HI. Confirm availability for your location with the collection lab.
Before you go
- Order your test before visiting a lab, then use the requisition form in your account.
- Print the requisition form, or fax it to the lab directly from your account.
- No scheduling is needed — visit the collection lab during its normal business hours.
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Bring a government-issued photo ID in case the lab requests it.
- Results are posted to your secure account within 1–3 business days.
Requirements are summarized from our partner lab's published policies. Preparation and availability can change — confirm current instructions with the collection lab before your visit.
What this test is
This blood test quantifies dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), a steroid hormone made mainly by the adrenal glands. DHEA-S levels can reflect adrenal activity and are sometimes checked alongside other hormone tests. The test is not a stand-alone diagnosis but provides information for a clinician to interpret.
What it measures
- DHEA Sulfate — Reflects the amount of this adrenal hormone in the blood
What the test involves
A healthcare professional collects a blood sample, usually from a vein in your arm, using a standard blood draw. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Why it is often ordered
A clinician may order this test to investigate symptoms that could relate to adrenal function, such as unusual hair growth, acne, or menstrual changes in women. It can also be used to monitor certain conditions or treatments affecting the adrenal glands.
Preparation
Preparation instructions can vary, so follow the specific directions provided by the collection laboratory. This may include timing the test to certain days of your cycle or avoiding certain medications, but only if instructed.
How results are reported
Results are reported as a numeric value for DHEA-S, often with a reference range. Reference ranges differ between laboratories and may depend on age and sex, so your result should be interpreted in the context of the lab that performed the test.
Before you go
- Whether any medications or supplements should be avoided before the test
- If there is a preferred time of day or cycle day for the blood draw
- How and when you will receive your test results
Cities
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Sulfate Test in California communities
Choose your city for local context and to order this test.