DHEA-S

DHEA-S (pronounced dee-ay-es) is an acronym for Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands.

Etymology

The term DHEA-S is derived from the full name of the hormone, Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. The term Dehydroepiandrosterone is a combination of the words "dehydro" (meaning removal of hydrogen), "epi" (meaning upon or over in Greek), "andro" (meaning man or male in Greek), and "sterone" (indicating a steroid). The "S" in DHEA-S stands for sulfate, indicating the presence of a sulfate group in the molecule.

Function

DHEA-S is the sulfated version of DHEA, and it is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone in humans. It serves as a precursor for the production of sex hormones, including Estrogen and Testosterone.

Measurement

The levels of DHEA-S in the body can be measured through a Blood test. This test is often used to evaluate adrenal function and to diagnose conditions related to an imbalance of adrenal hormones, such as Adrenal insufficiency or Cushing's syndrome.

Related Terms

• Adrenal gland
• Hormone
• Steroid
• Estrogen
• Testosterone
• Blood test
• Adrenal insufficiency
• Cushing's syndrome

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