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DHEA-Sulfate Unit Converter
Dehydroepiandrosterone-Sulfate (DHEA-S) is the most abundant circulating adrenal androgen. It is secreted almost exclusively by the adrenal cortex, making it an excellent marker of adrenal function. It is a sulfated, inactive prohormone that is converted peripherally into more potent androgens (like testosterone) or estrogens.[Image of HPA axis regulation]
Due to its long half-life, DHEA-S levels do not exhibit the diurnal variation seen with cortisol or DHEA. Clinically, DHEA-S measurement is essential in the workup of hyperandrogenism (hirsutism, virilization) to distinguish an adrenal source (high DHEA-S) from an ovarian source (normal DHEA-S). It is also used to evaluate adrenal tumors and monitor treatment for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH). This converter facilitates accurate switching between the SI unit (µmol/L) and the conventional mass unit (µg/dL).
SI Units
RecommendedMicromoles per liter or Nanomoles per liter.
Conventional Units
Clinical Context
Reference Range: Levels are highly age-dependent, peaking in the third decade of life and declining significantly thereafter. Peak values for adults can range from 150 – 450 µg/dL.
Levels > 700 µg/dL should raise suspicion for an adrenal tumor. Because DHEA-S is predominantly adrenal, it helps distinguish ovarian sources (high testosterone/androstenedione) from adrenal sources (high DHEA-S) in hyperandrogenism. The conversion factor relies on MW 368.5 g/mol: 1 µg/dL ≈ 2.714 µmol/L.
Clinical References
How to Use This Calculator
Follow these steps to get accurate clinical conversions instantly.
Enter Values
Input your laboratory results into the corresponding unit field (e.g., µg/dL). You can use either dot or comma decimals.
Automatic Conversion
The calculator works in real-time. As you type in one field, all other units (like µmol/L) are instantly updated.
Verify Units
Check the SI Units section. µmol/L is the standard SI unit for steroid hormones.
Reset
Use the Clear button to reset all fields before starting a new calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
No. 1 µg/dL is equivalent to 10 ng/mL in volume concentration.
No. Due to its sulfate group, DHEA-S has a long half-life (7–10 hours), minimizing the daily variation seen with free DHEA or cortisol.