This test measures the levels of DHEA-S, a major androgen produced by the adrenal glands. It's particularly useful for understanding issues related to hirsutism (excessive hair growth) or virilization in females, diagnosing conditions like premature adrenarche (early onset puberty), and identifying adrenal tumors. It's noteworthy that around 10% of women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) who experience excessive hair growth have high DHEA-S levels but normal levels of other androgens.