Comparison of serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, testosterone, and dihydrotestosterone levels in males with various degrees of acne vulgaris severity

Abstract

Objective: This study compared the levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) sulfate, testosterone, and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the serum of men with various degrees of severity grading of acne vulgaris. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analytic observational study and used the Combined Acne Severity Classification. Serum DHEA sulfate (DHEAS), testosterone, and DHT levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. We recruited 63 males with acne vulgaris. Results: For mild, moderate, or severe acne, the mean serum level of DHEAS was 90.92, 153.54, and 166.67 ng/ml (P = 0.000); testosterone was 6.66, 8.11, and 8.97 ng/ml (P = 0.445); and DHT was 87.33, 111.72, and 124.71 (P = 0.01), respectively. Post hoc analysis showed significant differences for DHEAS and DHT serum levels. There were significant differences for DHEAS and DHT serum levels. Conclusion: There was no significant difference in serum testosterone levels between groups, although there was an increase in concentration by acne vulgaris severity.