Dihydrotestosterone

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a powerful androgen responsible for developing and maintaining male characteristics, with implications for both male and female health, particularly in conditions related to hair, skin, and the prostate.

📋 About This Biomarker

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a potent androgen, which is a type of hormone that plays a key role in the development of male characteristics. DHT is derived from testosterone through the action of the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase and is crucial for male development during puberty, influencing the growth of body hair, the deepening of the voice, and the development of the prostate. However, DHT is also associated with some negative effects, particularly when present in excess. In men, high levels of DHT can contribute to conditions such as androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is the enlargement of the prostate gland. In women, elevated DHT levels can lead to hirsutism (excess body hair), acne, and even scalp hair thinning, especially in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Monitoring DHT levels provides valuable insights into androgen-related conditions and helps guide appropriate interventions to manage symptoms and maintain hormonal balance.

🎯 Why We Test This

Testing DHT levels is crucial for understanding androgen balance in the body, particularly in cases of hair loss, prostate health concerns, or androgen-related skin conditions like acne and hirsutism. Regular monitoring of DHT can help in diagnosing and managing conditions like androgenetic alopecia, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and polycystic ovary syndrome, ensuring timely intervention and treatment.

⚠️ What Affects It

DHT levels can be influenced by several factors, including genetics, age, and hormonal fluctuations. Individuals with a genetic predisposition to higher 5-alpha-reductase activity may produce more DHT, increasing the risk of conditions like hair loss and prostate enlargement. Hormonal imbalances, particularly changes in testosterone levels, directly affect DHT production. Other factors include the use of medications such as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (like finasteride), which are designed to lower DHT levels and manage conditions like hair loss or BPH. Lifestyle factors like diet, stress, and overall health can also play a role in modulating hormone levels and, consequently, DHT production. In women, conditions like PCOS can lead to elevated DHT levels, affecting overall health and appearance.

📈 How to Improve

To lower high DHT levels, lifestyle changes such as reducing stress, eating a balanced diet, and possibly using medications like 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors can be effective. For levels close to being high, these same adjustments can prevent further elevation. If DHT levels are low, treatment might involve addressing underlying hormonal deficiencies or imbalances, possibly with hormone therapy or lifestyle changes to support natural androgen production. Close to low levels typically do not require aggressive treatment but should be monitored to ensure overall hormonal health remains balanced.

📊 Understanding Your Results (nmol/L)

Low
Low DHT levels could indicate an underproduction of androgens or a deficiency in 5-alpha-reductase activity. In men, this might result in a lack of secondary sexual characteristics, such as reduced body hair, low libido, and potential infertility. In women, while low DHT is less of a concern, it may contribute to lower muscle mass and bone density. In both sexes, addressing low DHT levels involves understanding the underlying cause, whether it is hormonal imbalance or enzyme deficiency, and working with healthcare professionals to restore balance.
Optimal
DHT levels within the normal range indicate a balanced androgen profile, with DHT performing its necessary functions without leading to negative effects. For men, this suggests healthy hair growth, normal prostate function, and stable energy levels. For women, normal DHT levels help maintain muscle mass, bone density, and skin health without causing symptoms of excess androgen. Maintaining this balance is crucial for overall hormonal health. When DHT levels approach the higher end of the reference range, it suggests that the body is nearing a state where androgen-related symptoms might start to appear. In men, this could mean early signs of hair thinning or the initial stages of prostate enlargement. In women, this could mean the onset of mild hirsutism or acne. Monitoring these levels closely and making preemptive lifestyle or medical interventions can help prevent more severe symptoms from developing. DHT levels close to the lower limit of the reference range might indicate lower androgen activity. In men, this could manifest as reduced body hair growth, less muscle mass, or a decrease in libido. In women, low DHT levels generally do not cause significant symptoms but may be associated with a decrease in muscle tone and bone density over time. This scenario usually does not require intervention unless other symptoms of hormonal imbalance are present.
High
Elevated DHT levels often indicate an overactivity of androgen hormones in the body. In men, this can manifest as male pattern baldness or an enlarged prostate, leading to urinary symptoms. High DHT can also increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. In women, high DHT is usually associated with symptoms like hirsutism, acne, and scalp hair thinning, especially in the context of PCOS. Addressing high DHT levels may involve the use of medications, lifestyle modifications, and in some cases, treatments specifically aimed at reducing androgen activity.
Also known as: DHT