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:
Steroid Laboratory at King's College Hospital
020 3299 4131
King's College Hospital
Denmark Hill
London SE5 9RS
For clinical advice or interpretation of results, please contact the laboratory in the first instance.

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Last updated: 03/10/2022