Test measuring the DHEA-S level in blood, a precursor hormone that belongs to the family of androgens. It is also known as androstenolone sulfate, and it is naturally produced in the adrenal glands.

DHEA-S is the sulfated form of DHEA and is the major androgen produced by the adrenal glands. This test is used in the differential diagnosis of hirsute or virilized female patients and for the diagnosis of isolated premature adrenarche and adrenal tumors. About 10% of hirsute women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) have elevated DHEA-S but normal levels of other androgens.