5-Alpha Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) Test

5-Alpha Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) Test: Details & Precautions

The Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) test measures the levels of DHT, a potent androgen derived from testosterone through the action of the 5-alpha reductase enzyme. DHT plays a key role in male sexual development, hair growth, prostate function, and skin health.

Test Details

✅ Purpose:

• Diagnoses androgen-related conditions such as:
  • Male pattern baldness (Androgenic Alopecia).
  • Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).
  • Hirsutism (excessive hair growth in women).
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
  • 5-alpha reductase deficiency (genetic disorder affecting male sexual development).
• Evaluates hormonal imbalances in men and women.
• Monitors treatment response to DHT blockers (e.g., finasteride, dutasteride).

✅ Normal Reference Range (May vary by lab):

• Men: 30–85 ng/dL
• Women: 5–50 ng/dL
• Elevated DHT levels may indicate excessive androgen activity, leading to hair loss, acne, or prostate issues.
• Low DHT levels may suggest hormonal deficiencies or enzyme deficiencies affecting DHT production.

Precautions Before & During the Test

🔹 Before the Test

1️⃣ Timing of the Test

• Best done in the morning when hormone levels are highest.

2️⃣ Medication Considerations (Consult your doctor before stopping any medication)

• 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (e.g., finasteride, dutasteride) can lower DHT levels.
• Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can increase DHT levels.
• Anabolic steroids and certain supplements can affect results.

3️⃣ Diet & Lifestyle Factors

• Avoid high-fat meals before the test (can affect hormone metabolism).
• Reduce alcohol and caffeine intake for a more accurate reading.

4️⃣ Exercise Considerations

• Avoid intense workouts before the test (can temporarily alter DHT levels).

🔹 During the Test

• Blood Sample Collection:
  • A blood sample is drawn from a vein.
  • No fasting is typically required, but follow your doctor’s instructions.

🔹 After the Test

• Results take a few days.
• If abnormal, additional tests may include:
  • Testosterone levels (total & free testosterone).
  • DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, another androgen precursor).
  • Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) for prostate health in men.

Interpreting Results

📉 Low DHT Levels May Indicate:

• 5-Alpha Reductase Deficiency (genetic disorder).
• Hypogonadism (low testosterone production).
• Use of DHT-blocking medications (finasteride, dutasteride).

📈 High DHT Levels May Indicate:

• Male Pattern Baldness (Androgenic Alopecia).
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).
• Excessive Androgen Production (PCOS in women).