Does high DHT mean high testosterone? - Butterfly Hormone Center

DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a hormone that is chemically similar to testosterone. It is produced when the enzyme 5-alpha reductase converts testosterone into DHT. While DHT levels can provide some indication of testosterone levels, having high DHT does not necessarily mean having high testosterone. There are a few key points to understand regarding the relationship between DHT and testosterone:

• DHT is a metabolite of testosterone. Testosterone gets converted into DHT via the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. So in order to have high DHT, you need to first have adequate testosterone production.
• Only a small portion of testosterone gets converted into DHT. Research shows that only around 10% of circulating testosterone undergoes conversion into DHT. So even if you have high DHT, it does not mean the majority of your testosterone has turned into DHT.

Having genetic variations that increase 5-alpha reductase activity can drive higher DHT without necessarily increasing testosterone levels. There are genetic factors that affect 5-alpha reductase activity and DHT production. Individuals with certain variations, like in the SRD5A2 gene, tend to overproduce DHT without elevated testosterone.

• Many factors beyond testosterone impact DHT levels. From inflammation to insulin resistance, various health issues can drive higher 5-alpha reductase activity and DHT. So DHT may be high due to underlying health conditions rather than high testosterone per se.

In summary, while DHT requires testosterone as its precursor, having high DHT does not directly translate to having proportionally high testosterone. Genetics, lifestyle factors, and health status all contribute to determining DHT levels in circulation. Now that we understand the nuances of the DHT and testosterone relationship, here are some symptoms that could prompt testing DHT and/or testosterone levels:

• Hair loss or thinning, especially in a male pattern baldness pattern
• Prostate enlargement
• Acne, oily skin, or hirsutism in women
• Erectile dysfunction
• Loss of muscle mass
• Mood disturbances - like depression or irritability
• Difficulties with concentration and memory
• Hot flashes and decreased libido (symptoms of low testosterone)

If you are experiencing any symptoms potentially related to androgen (DHT/testosterone) status, comprehensive hormone testing can provide insight. Testing both DHT and testosterone, along with other related hormones, gives a clearer picture. At Butterfly Hormone Center, we specialize in precision hormone testing and optimization. Our advanced hormone panels check testosterone, DHT, and other key hormones using LC-MS/MS analysis - the gold standard for accuracy and reproducibility. We also provide genetics testing to assess how your DNA impacts hormone metabolism and action. Based on test results, our physicians create personalized treatment plans to get to the root cause and help patients feel their best. We take an integrative approach that combines bioidentical hormone therapy, nutrients, and lifestyle changes for full-body health and wellness. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit: Hope this helps explain the relationship between DHT and testosterone. Let me know if you have any other hormone-related questions!