Dihydrotestosterone, Free, Serum

Quest Diagnostics

Sample type: Serum

Requires fasting: No

Phlebotomy required

Details

Doctors might order this test for individuals showing signs of abnormal male sexual development or to evaluate treatment effects on androgen levels. Symptoms and conditions leading to the test include underdeveloped male genitalia, prostate health concerns, changes in skin condition.

Biomarker summary

Dihydrotestosterone
Dihydrotestosterone, Free

Additional details

Estimated days for results: Results should be available in 2 - 5 business days after the sample is collected

Details

Dihydrotestosterone, Free, Serum - This test measures the level of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the blood, which is crucial for diagnosing conditions like 5-alpha-reductase deficiency that affects male sexual development. It's also used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments that impact androgen levels. DHT is a key androgen involved in the development of male external genitalia, prostate growth, and skin health. It's mainly produced from testosterone through the action of 5-alpha-reductase in tissues.

Who might need this test?

Underdeveloped male genitalia
Prostate health concerns
Changes in skin condition

What type of sample is required for this test?

1.5 mL of serum collected in a red-top tube (no gel) is needed for this test.

Understanding Your Results

Interpreting the results requires considering clinical history, family history, and physical examination findings. While DHT levels are crucial for certain diagnoses, they should be viewed as part of a comprehensive assessment.

Note:

Recent studies suggest that high DHT levels may not directly increase the risk of prostate issues, challenging previous beliefs. Always discuss your test results with your healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Average sample processing time

3–6 business days

Reference range

Dihydrotestosterone
Females ≤20 ng/dL
Males 12-65 ng/dL
DHT, Free
Adult females ≤0.91 pg/mL
Adult males 0.62-3.38 pg/mL

Health categories

Patient instructions

Blood Draw Options with Fullscript
Fullscript offers several convenient phlebotomy options to complete your lab testing:

Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Centers (PSC)

Location: Visit a nearby Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Center.
Cost: $10 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here. Appointments are recommended to reduce wait times. Walk-ins are accepted, but may experience delays. Aim to arrive 10 minutes before your appointment.
Collection Instructions:

Bring a valid ID.
Bring your digital or printed requisition form, available in the Labs tab of your Fullscript account.

Check-in: Scan the QR code from your confirmation email or follow kiosk instructions.
More Info: Quest Diagnostics blood draw guide

Getlabs Mobile Phlebotomy

Location: Sample collection at your home or office.
Cost: $85 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
Availability: Available in most locations – enter your ZIP code during checkout to confirm.
Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here through your Fullscript account.
Collection Instructions: