Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) is a steroid hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands. It is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone in humans. DHEA-S is a precursor to other hormones, including androgens and estrogens. Its levels fluctuate throughout life, peaking in young adulthood and gradually declining with age. Measuring DHEA-S provides insight into adrenal gland function and can be a reflection of overall hormonal balance, without being directly linked to stress in all contexts. It serves as a reservoir for sex steroid synthesis, making it an important indicator in various physiological processes.
DHEA-S
Adrenal hormone precursor.