Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
- Description
- 5-αDHT measurement is used in: - Identifying patients with 5 alpha-reductase deficiency. - Androgenic alopecia (male-pattern baldness). - Monitoring patients receiving 5 alpha-reductase inhibitor. - In idiopathic hirsuitism about 40% of the patients have an increased DHT level.
- Clinical details
DHT is a C19 steroid and is generated by reduction of testosterone by 5-alpha reductase.
Serum concentrations of testosterone and DHT are very variable within the first 6 months of life and through puberty and baseline values may be at the limit of sensitivity. In pre-pubertal patients, values should be assessed before and after treatment with hCG.
- Related condition
- Reference range
- Units
nmol/L
- Testing site
- Synnovis : Reference Services : Blackfriars Hub
- Laboratory
- Steroid
- Sample type and volume required
Clotted (yellow SST) preferred, but EDTA plasma also accepted. Volume required: 250uL; Absolute minimum required: 150uL.
- Storage and transport
Serum aliquots are stable at 4°C for 24 hours. Store at -20°C thereafter.
- Turnaround time
10 working days or 14 days
- Contacts
Steroid Laboratory at Blackfriars Hub
Phone: 020 4591 0052
Steroid Laboratory
Floor 1, Synnovis Hub
Friars Bridge Court
41-43 Blackfriars Road
London SE1 8NZ