Explore 10,000+ laboratory markers, in plain English.

Produced by both the adrenal gland and the brain

Produced by both the adrenal gland and the brain

Produced by both the adrenal gland and the brain

DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone), a pivotal adrenal hormone, features prominently in the ZRT Laboratory Urinary Neurotransmitters panel, underscoring its importance in male health and wellness. As one of the most abundant circulating steroids in humans, DHEA serves as a precursor to both androgens and estrogens, hormones that are essential in male physiology. In men, optimal DHEA levels are critical for maintaining muscle mass, bone density, mood stability, and overall energy levels. Low DHEA levels in males can be a marker of adrenal insufficiency, aging, or other health conditions, and are often associated with symptoms like fatigue, depression, a decrease in sexual function, and an increased risk for chronic diseases. The inclusion of DHEA in the urinary neurotransmitter panel by ZRT Laboratory allows for a comprehensive evaluation of hormonal health, offering valuable insights into the adrenal function and hormonal balance in men. This is particularly relevant for aging men, as DHEA levels naturally decline with age. Healthcare professionals utilize this panel to aid in diagnosing conditions related to hormonal imbalances and to monitor the effectiveness of treatments, such as DHEA supplementation. Regular assessment of DHEA levels is crucial in developing targeted treatment plans and ensuring optimal health outcomes in men's health care.

The DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate) to cortisol ratio is a marker used in assessing adrenal gland function and can provide insight into the balance of hormones produced by these glands. DHEA-S is an androgen precursor produced by the adrenal glands, which is then converted into more potent androgens or estrogens within tissues. Cortisol, also produced by the adrenal glands, is a steroid hormone pivotal to the stress response, glucose metabolism, and inflammation control. An optimal balance between DHEA-S and cortisol is crucial for maintaining health, as it reflects the state of adrenal function and the body’s response to stress. A skewed ratio, with either elevated DHEA-S or cortisol, could indicate various conditions, including adrenal fatigue, Cushing's syndrome, adrenal hyperplasia, or adrenal insufficiency. Evaluating this ratio helps clinicians understand if there's an overproduction or underproduction of these hormones, guiding diagnostic and therapeutic decisions.

DHEA-S is the sulfate ester of DHEA

A precursor to both testosterone and estrogen.

Dehydroepiandrosterone

This calculation represents anabolic and catabolic balance.

The DHEA: Cortisol Ratio is an important marker that helps assess the balance between two crucial hormones produced by the adrenal glands: dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and cortisol. DHEA is often referred to as a "youth hormone" because it supports immune function, mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. On the other hand, cortisol is known as the "stress hormone" because it plays a key role in the body's response to stress, affecting metabolism, immune response, and energy levels. The ratio between these two hormones is significant because it provides insight into how well the adrenal glands are functioning. A balanced ratio indicates that the body is managing stress well and maintaining overall hormonal balance. However, an imbalance, such as a high cortisol level with low DHEA, can indicate chronic stress, adrenal fatigue, or other health issues. Conversely, a high DHEA level with low cortisol might suggest different imbalances or conditions. By evaluating the DHEA: Cortisol Ratio, healthcare providers can better understand an individual's stress response and overall adrenal health, allowing them to recommend targeted interventions such as lifestyle changes, stress management techniques, or specific supplements to restore balance and improve health outcomes.

This calculation represents anabolic and catabolic balance

DHEA and DHEAs are produced in the adrenal gland and serve as precursors to androgens and estrogens. Due to the interconversion between DHEA and DHEAS via SULT2A1 and/or STS, the sum of these maybe a better representation of total DHEA synthesis.

a better representation of total DHEA synthesis

What are DHEA and DHEA-S? Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfated form, DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate), are hormones produced primarily by the adrenal glands. They serve as precursors to androgens and estrogens, the primary sex hormones in the body. DHEA and DHEA-S levels naturally decline with age and play a crucial role in metabolism, mood regulation, immune function, and reproductive health. Why Are DHEA and DHEA-S Important? These markers help assess adrenal function and the balance of sex hormones in women. Since DHEA-S is the more stable, long-lasting form of DHEA in the body, measuring both together provides a comprehensive picture of androgenic activity. When to Consider Testing? DHEA + DHEA-S testing may be recommended if you experience: Fatigue or chronic stress Hormonal imbalances (irregular periods, infertility) Symptoms of PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) Low libido or unexplained weight changes Signs of androgen excess (acne, hair thinning, hirsutism) Adrenal dysfunction (Addison’s or Cushing’s syndrome)

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, is the precursor for estrogens and testosterone, and is therefore normally present in significantly greater quantities than all the other steroid hormones. It is mostly found in the circulation in the form of its sulfate ester, DHEA sulfate (DHEA-S), levels of which in saliva are higher and more stable than those of DHEA. Its production is highest in the late teens to early 20s and declines gradually with age in both men and women. Levels of DHEA-S reflect adrenal gland function. Low DHEA-S indicates adrenal insufficiency and/or androgen deficiency and can be associated with reduced libido and general malaise. High DHEA-S levels are seen in hyper-adrenal states such as CAH, and in polycystic ovarian syndrome; high levels in women are associated with masculinizing effects because of its local metabolism to testosterone. DHEA supplementation has been successfully used to treat adrenal insufficiency and can restore normal levels of testosterone in women with androgen deficiency, particularly as a consequence of ovary removal. Because of its conversion to potent estrogens and androgens, levels should be closely monitored during supplementation to avoid excess. DHEA is a supplement commonly used topically and orally. It is marketed as a dietary supplement for weight loss, increased metabolism, and memory enhancement.

the precursor for estrogens and testosterone

The marker DHEAS Profile, Waking+30min refers to the measurement of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) levels in the body at 30 minutes after waking up. DHEAS is an endogenous steroid hormone produced predominantly by the adrenal cortex, and to a lesser extent by the ovaries and testes. It serves as a precursor to sex steroids, including androgens and estrogens, and is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone in humans. The significance of measuring DHEAS levels at this time lies in the assessment of adrenal gland function, stress response, and potential endocrine disorders. Upon waking, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is activated, leading to a surge in cortisol levels known as the cortisol awakening response (CAR). DHEAS, being partly regulated by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) similarly to cortisol, also exhibits a diurnal rhythm and potentially a waking response, although its dynamics can be less pronounced and more variable among individuals. The measurement of DHEAS levels upon 30 minutes after waking can provide insights into the body's stress response mechanism and adrenal function. Elevated levels of DHEAS may indicate conditions such as adrenal hyperplasia or adrenal tumors, while low levels could suggest adrenal insufficiency or hypopituitarism. Moreover, the waking+30min DHEAS profile may have implications for understanding conditions like chronic stress, aging, and metabolic syndrome, as DHEAS levels generally decline with age and may be inversely related to insulin resistance and cardiovascular risk.

A malabsorption marker

A malabsorption marker