Dihydrotestosterone Test: Booking, Price, and Results

The Dihydrotestosterone test measures the level of DHT, a potent androgen (male sex hormone), in the blood. DHT is produced from testosterone with the help of an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase, and it plays a key role in the development of male characteristics such as facial hair, a deep voice, and male reproductive organs. Also known as the DHT Serum test, it is ordered when a doctor suspects a hormonal imbalance or androgen-related condition. A small blood sample drawn from a vein in the arm is all that is needed.

A doctor may order a Dihydrotestosterone test for several reasons, from investigating hair loss to assessing hormonal disorders. The sections below explain the most common triggers.

Common Symptoms That May Require This Test

The following symptoms are typical reasons a doctor may request this test:

• Hair thinning or progressive hair loss on the scalp
• Acne that does not respond to standard treatment
• Irregular menstrual periods in women
• Low sex drive or reduced libido
• Excessive facial or body hair growth in women (hirsutism)
• Prostate enlargement or urinary difficulties in men
• Fatigue with no clear explanation

Conditions This Test Can Help Detect

This test can provide useful information for identifying several conditions:

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland
• Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male or female pattern baldness
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal condition in women causing irregular periods, acne, and excess hair
• Hirsutism, which refers to excessive hair growth in women due to high androgen levels
• 5-alpha reductase deficiency, a genetic condition where the body cannot convert testosterone to DHT normally
• Virilisation, where women develop male-like features such as a deepening voice or increased muscle mass

Dihydrotestosterone Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring

The Dihydrotestosterone test is commonly used to monitor patients who are receiving 5-alpha reductase inhibitor therapy or chemotherapy, and to evaluate those with suspected 5-alpha reductase deficiency. It also helps track the effectiveness of treatment for prostate disease or hormone therapy. Depending on the condition and treatment plan, testing is typically repeated every 3 to 6 months during active therapy.

Your doctor will review your Dihydrotestosterone test result alongside your symptoms, age, and health history. The reference ranges below are a general guide:

These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.

Reference ranges may also vary slightly between laboratories.

Results During Special Conditions

Certain situations can affect how results should be read:

• Patients taking 5-alpha reductase inhibitor medications, such as finasteride or dutasteride, will typically show lower DHT levels as a direct effect of the medication.
• Patients with a genetic 5-alpha reductase deficiency have reduced DHT levels.
• In people with benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostate cancer, DHT levels in the blood may not always be elevated, even though DHT activity within the prostate tissue may still be driving prostate growth.
• DHT levels in the blood tend to remain relatively stable with ageing, even as overall testosterone levels decline.

How to Maintain Healthy Levels

The following general wellness habits support normal hormone balance:

• Include foods rich in zinc and healthy fats (such as nuts, seeds, and oily fish) in your daily diet, as these support hormone production.
• Engaging in regular moderate physical activity, which helps keep hormonal levels in balance.
• Manage chronic stress through adequate sleep, relaxation techniques, or light exercise, as prolonged stress can disrupt hormone metabolism.