Biomarker Reference · Cortisol:DHEA
Cortisol-to-DHEA Ratio (derived) (Cortisol:DHEA) is a clinical biomarker used in adrenal-stress assessment. This derived metric expresses the balance between catabolic glucocorticoid and anabolic androgen precursor activity. It is measured in 3 laboratory tests on BiomarkersLabs.com.
This derived metric expresses the balance between catabolic glucocorticoid and anabolic androgen precursor activity. It is not a single-timepoint calculation — commonly the sum or average of cortisol timepoints is divided by DHEA — and the formula varies between laboratories.
An elevated cortisol:DHEA ratio is interpreted as a signature of chronic stress with relative adrenal androgen insufficiency. The ratio is used in functional and integrative practice to guide adaptogen or DHEA supplementation; it is not a validated diagnostic marker in conventional endocrinology and should not be used to diagnose or exclude adrenal insufficiency or Cushing syndrome.
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and assay platform. Interpret in context of the issuing laboratory's stated range.
3 tests on BiomarkersLabs.com include this biomarker.
Cortisol-to-DHEA Ratio (derived) reference range in this test: No standardised reference interval; the ratio is computed from the cortisol and DHEA results and interpreted qualitatively.
Cortisol-to-DHEA Ratio (derived) reference range in this test: Method- and collection-time-specific; higher ratios suggest relative catabolic predominance.
Cortisol-to-DHEA Ratio (derived) reference range in this test: Interpretive, not strictly defined; elevated ratios suggest cortisol predominance.
Related Biomarkers
Available exclusively to verified licensed healthcare practitioners. CLIA-certified laboratory results delivered to your secure portal.
Create Free Account