Ulta Lab Tests

Hair Loss

There are no preparation instructions.

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: DHT, Dihydrotestosterone, Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), Dihydrotestosterone DHT LCMSMS

Dihydrotestosterone,

*Important Information on Lab Test Processing Times: Ulta Lab Tests is committed to informing you about the processing times for your lab tests processed through a national lab. Please note that the estimated processing time for each test, indicated in business days, is based on data from the past 30 days across the 13 laboratories for each test. These estimates are intended to serve as a guide and are not guarantees. Factors such as laboratory workload, weather conditions, holidays, and the need for additional testing or maintenance can influence actual processing times. We aim to offer estimates to help you plan accordingly. Please understand that these times may vary, and processing times are not guaranteed. Thank you for choosing Ulta Lab Tests for your laboratory needs.

The Hair Loss test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker .

Brief Description: The Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) test for Hair Loss is a specific diagnostic evaluation aimed at measuring the levels of DHT, an androgen hormone, in the body. DHT is derived from testosterone through the action of the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase and is believed to play a significant role in androgenetic alopecia (commonly known as male or female pattern baldness). High levels of DHT are associated with the miniaturization of hair follicles, leading to hair thinning and loss.

Also Known As: DHT

Testing Method: Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry

Collection Method: Blood Draw Hair Loss Test Blood Draw | Ulta Lab Tests
Specimen: 1 mL Serum Hair Loss Test Specimen Type Serum | Ulta Lab Tests

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When and Why a Dihydrotestosterone Test for Hair Loss May Be Ordered

This test may be ordered when:

  1. Evaluating Androgenetic Alopecia: In patients presenting with patterns of hair loss typical of male or female pattern baldness.
  2. Assessing Treatment Options: To determine the suitability of treatments that target DHT, such as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors.
  3. Differentiating Hair Loss Causes: When it's crucial to distinguish between hair loss due to androgenetic alopecia and other causes like telogen effluvium, alopecia areata, or nutritional deficiencies.

What the Dihydrotestosterone Test for Hair Loss Checks For

The DHT test specifically measures the serum levels of dihydrotestosterone in the body. Elevated levels of DHT are often implicated in the pathophysiology of androgenetic alopecia, as they can lead to the shrinking of hair follicles, shorter hair growth cycles, and eventually hair loss.

Additional Lab Tests Ordered Alongside a Dihydrotestosterone Test for Hair Loss

To gain a comprehensive understanding of a patient's hair loss, additional tests may include:

How Health Care Providers Use the Results of a Dihydrotestosterone Test for Hair Loss

Healthcare providers use the results of the DHT test to:

  1. Confirm the Role of Androgens: Elevated DHT levels support the diagnosis of androgenetic alopecia, particularly in cases where the clinical presentation is ambiguous.
  2. Tailor Treatment Plans: For patients with elevated DHT levels, treatments that reduce DHT production or block its effects on hair follicles, such as finasteride or dutasteride, may be considered.
  3. Monitor Treatment Efficacy: In patients already undergoing treatment for androgenetic alopecia, repeating the DHT test can help assess the effectiveness of the therapy and guide adjustments.
  4. Evaluate Overall Hormonal Balance: The results can provide insights into a patient's hormonal status, which can be crucial for understanding broader health implications beyond hair loss.
We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

Customer Reviews