Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a potent androgen, a hormone influencing the development and maintenance of male characteristics. It forms from testosterone, the primary male sex hormone, through the action of an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. While present in both males and females, DHT levels are typically much higher in males due to their naturally greater testosterone production. DHT levels can be measured to provide insights into various physiological processes.
How DHT Levels Are Measured
Measuring Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels primarily involves a blood test, specifically a serum DHT test. This method is widely used and directly measures the hormone circulating in the bloodstream. A healthcare professional typically draws a blood sample from a vein, usually in the arm, which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
While blood tests are most common, other methods like urine or saliva tests exist, though they are less frequently used for routine DHT assessment. For optimal accuracy, blood collection for hormone tests, including DHT, is often recommended in the morning, typically between 8-10 AM, when hormone levels are often at their peak. Fasting is generally not required, but inform your doctor about any medications or supplements, as these can influence results.
When DHT Testing Is Recommended
Healthcare professionals recommend DHT testing when symptoms suggest a hormonal imbalance. This includes male or female pattern hair loss (androgenic alopecia), as elevated DHT can contribute to follicle shrinking. Testing also assesses prostate concerns like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), an enlargement of the prostate gland.
In females, DHT testing is relevant for hirsutism (excessive body or facial hair growth) or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), both linked to elevated androgen levels. It can also help evaluate hormonal imbalances affecting sexual development, such as ambiguous genitalia in infants or children. Monitoring DHT levels is useful for individuals undergoing hormone therapy or taking medications that influence androgen levels.
Interpreting DHT Level Results
Interpreting DHT test results requires considering typical reference ranges, which vary by laboratory, age, and sex. For adult males, circulating DHT levels typically range from 11 to 95 ng/dL (0.38 to 3.27 nmol/L). In premenopausal women, levels are around 9 ng/dL (0.3 nmol/L), and lower in postmenopausal women at about 3 ng/dL (0.1 nmol/L).
Elevated DHT in males may suggest male pattern baldness or benign prostatic hyperplasia. In females, high DHT might indicate hirsutism, female pattern hair loss, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Conversely, low DHT, especially in males, could point to a 5-alpha reductase deficiency or be a medication side effect. A healthcare professional must interpret these results, integrating them with a patient’s overall health history, symptoms, and other diagnostic information for an accurate assessment.