Advanced
Technical
IVT
Dihydrotestosterone
Pronunciation: die-high-dro-tes-TOS-ter-own
Also written as: DHT
A potent androgen hormone derived from testosterone, important in male development disorders.
Full Definition
Dihydrotestosterone is the most potent naturally occurring androgen, formed from testosterone by 5α-reductase enzyme. DHT is responsible for male external genital development and prostate growth. Testing is indicated for disorders of sexual development, 5α-reductase deficiency, and certain cases of male infertility or ambiguous genitalia. DHT levels are typically much lower than testosterone but have significantly greater androgenic potency.
Usage
Usage note: Note relationship to testosterone levels; specify if 5α-reductase inhibitors affect results.
In Context
- "Low DHT with normal testosterone suggests 5α-reductase deficiency in this male infant." — Pediatric endocrinology
- "DHT measurement requires specialized laboratory techniques due to low circulating levels." — Laboratory medicine
Also known as
DHT
5α-Dihydrotestosterone
Don't confuse with
Testosterone
Androstenedione
5α-Reductase