Hair Loss Test (DHT)
The Hair Loss Test measures dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone linked to male and female pattern baldness. Elevated DHT can shrink hair follicles and cause thinning or hair loss, while abnormal levels may also reflect hormonal imbalance. Doctors order this test for patients with premature hair loss, androgenetic alopecia, or suspected hormone disorders. Results help guide diagnosis, treatment, and targeted therapies for hair and scalp health.
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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,
The Hair Loss Test (DHT) test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker .
Testing Method: Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry
Collection Method: Blood Draw ![]()
Specimen: 1 mL Serum 
Test Preparation: No preparation required
When and Why a Dihydrotestosterone Test for Hair Loss May Be Ordered
This test may be ordered when:
- Evaluating Androgenetic Alopecia: In patients presenting with patterns of hair loss typical of male or female pattern baldness.
- Assessing Treatment Options: To determine the suitability of treatments that target DHT, such as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors.
- 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:
- Total Testosterone and Free Testosterone Tests: To evaluate the precursor levels of DHT and overall androgen status.
- Thyroid Function Tests: Including TSH, Free T3, and Free T4, since thyroid dysfunctions can also cause hair loss.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): To identify anemia or other blood-related disorders that could contribute to hair loss.
- Ferritin Level Test: To check for iron deficiency, another potential cause of hair loss.
How Health Care Providers Use the Results of a Dihydrotestosterone Test for Hair Loss
Healthcare providers use the results of the DHT test to:
- Confirm the Role of Androgens: Elevated DHT levels support the diagnosis of androgenetic alopecia, particularly in cases where the clinical presentation is ambiguous.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.

