Name of the Procedure:

Dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEA-S) Test

Summary

The DHEA-S test measures the level of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate in your blood. DHEA-S is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and is used to assess adrenal function. It can help diagnose adrenal gland disorders and conditions causing excess or deficient hormone production.

Purpose

The DHEA-S test addresses conditions related to abnormal hormone levels, such as adrenal gland disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and certain types of tumors. The primary goal is to evaluate adrenal function and help diagnose hormonal imbalance issues.

Indications

Specific symptoms or conditions that warrant the procedure include:

• Excessive body or facial hair in women (hirsutism)
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Suspected adrenal tumor
• Early or delayed puberty

Patient criteria or factors making the procedure appropriate:

• Patients showing symptoms of hormonal imbalance
• Individuals suspected of having adrenal gland disorders
• Patients with abnormal menstrual cycles

Preparation

• No special preparation is usually required.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications and supplements they are taking, as some can affect test results.

Procedure Description

1. The procedure involves drawing a blood sample from the patient.
2. A healthcare professional will clean the site (usually inside of the elbow) with an antiseptic wipe.
3. A tourniquet is applied to the upper arm to fill the veins with blood.
4. A needle is inserted into the vein, and blood is collected into a vial or syringe.
5. The needle is removed, and a bandage is applied to the puncture site.

Tools, equipment, or technology used:

• Antiseptic wipes, tourniquet, syringe or needle with vial, and bandage.

Anesthesia or sedation details, if applicable:

• No anesthesia or sedation is required as it is a simple blood draw.

Duration

The blood draw typically takes less than 10 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a clinic, hospital, or outpatient lab.

Personnel

Healthcare professionals involved:

• Phlebotomist or nurse (for drawing the blood)
• Lab technician (for analyzing the blood sample)

Risks and Complications

Common risks include:

• Minor pain or bruising at the puncture site Rare risks include:
• Infection
• Excessive bleeding
• Fainting

Benefits

Expected benefits include:

• Accurate assessment of adrenal gland function
• Assistance in diagnosing hormonal disorders
• Helping to guide appropriate treatment plans

How soon they might be realized:

• Test results are generally available within a few days, enabling timely diagnosis and treatment planning.

Recovery

Post-procedure care and instructions:

• Apply pressure to the puncture site to stop any bleeding.
• Keep the bandage on for a few hours.

Expected recovery time and any restrictions or follow-up appointments:

• No specific recovery time needed.
• Normal activities can be resumed immediately.
• Follow-up appointments depend on test results and the doctor's recommendations.

Alternatives

Other treatment options available:

• Urine tests for adrenal function
• Imaging studies (CT scan or MRI) for adrenal assessment

Pros and cons of alternatives compared to the described procedure:

• Urine tests might be less invasive but are often less detailed.
• Imaging studies provide detailed structural information but are more expensive and involve radiation exposure.

Patient Experience

What the patient might feel or experience during and after the procedure:

• Minor discomfort or a quick pinch when the needle is inserted.
• Possible mild bruising or soreness at the puncture site.

Pain management and comfort measures:

• The procedure is generally well-tolerated with minimal discomfort.
• Applying a cold pack to the site might alleviate any soreness.