What does the Dihydrotestosterone test measure?

Why is Dihydrotestosterone measured?

DHT measurement is used to investigate androgen excess in both sexes, to confirm 5α-reductase deficiency in cases of ambiguous genitalia or undervirilisation, and to monitor 5α-reductase inhibitor therapy. Elevated DHT underlies many features of hyperandrogenism — notably androgenic alopecia, hirsutism, and acne — when circulating testosterone may be normal or only mildly raised. Because the majority of circulating DHT is produced peripherally rather than secreted by the testes or adrenals, interpretation requires correlation with total and free testosterone, SHBG, and sometimes androstenedione.

Reference ranges

Standard reference

Adult males approximately 30–85 ng/dL; adult females approximately 4–22 ng/dL. Paediatric ranges are age- and Tanner-stage dependent.

Functional medicine optimal

Optimal DHT concentrations are context-dependent. In men, mid-normal testosterone with proportionate DHT supports libido, sexual function, and anabolic effects; excessively high DHT may drive prostate growth or accelerate pattern hair loss. In women, any detectable elevation warrants investigation of the source of androgen excess.

Units

ng/dL, pg/mL, pmol/L, nmol/L

Reference ranges vary by laboratory and assay platform. Interpret in context of the issuing laboratory's stated range.