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DHEA Sulfate Ratio

Meaning

The DHEA Sulfate Ratio is a clinical assessment that typically refers to the comparison of Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) levels against other relevant hormones, such as cortisol or testosterone, to gauge adrenal function and hormonal balance. DHEA-S, a major adrenal steroid, serves as a precursor to androgens and estrogens, and its ratio to cortisol is often interpreted as a marker of the body’s anabolic versus catabolic state. A balanced ratio is associated with better resilience, while a skewed ratio can suggest chronic stress, adrenal fatigue, or altered steroidogenesis pathways. Monitoring this ratio provides valuable insight into the overall hormonal milieu.