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.
Reference range: 
Units: 
nmol/L
Sample type and Volume required: 
Clotted (yellow SST) preferred, but EDTA plasma also accepted. Volume required: 250uL; Absolute minimum required: 150uL.
Turnaround time: 
10 working days or 14 days
Storage and transport: 
Serum aliquots are stable at 4°C for 24 hours. Store at -20°C thereafter.
Contacts:
For clinical advice or interpretation of results, please contact the laboratory in the first instance.

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Last updated: 03/10/2022