DHT (dihydrotestosterone) test
Quick answer: A DHT test measures dihydrotestosterone, a strong male hormone made from testosterone. It may be ordered to look into unusual sexual development, excess hair growth in women, or hormone problems in men.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed; tell staff about any hormone or hair-loss medicines you take.
How the test is done
- 1Blood is drawn from a vein, often in the morning
- 2You tell the staff about any hair-loss or prostate medicines you take
- 3The lab measures DHT, often along with testosterone
- 4Results are read with your symptoms and other hormone tests
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Ranges differ by age and sex; discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high level can be seen with excess male hormones in women, such as in PCOS, or with testosterone use. A low level can be seen with low testosterone, a rare enzyme deficiency, or medicines such as finasteride that block DHT.
Who usually has this test
Women with excess hair growth or acne, men with signs of low male hormones, and children whose genital development is unclear.
Risks and aftercare
A small bruise is possible, and you can carry on with your day.
Names and options
Also called: dihydrotestosterone, DHT
Listed by the hospital as
- DI HYDRO TESTOSTERONE (DHT), SERUM
Questions about this test
Does DHT cause hair loss?
DHT plays a key role in male-pattern hair loss in people who are prone to it. Blood DHT levels are often normal in people with hair loss, so the test is not routine for this.
Can finasteride affect a DHT result?
Yes, finasteride and dutasteride lower DHT. Tell your doctor if you take them, and do not stop them without advice.
Is DHT tested in PCOS?
Testosterone is usually tested first in PCOS. DHT may be added in some women with excess hair growth.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.