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 theserum of men with various degrees of severity grading of acne vulgaris. Methods: We conducted a cross‑sectional analytic observationalstudy and used the Combined Acne Severity Classification. Serum DHEA sulfate (DHEAS), testosterone, and DHT levels were measuredby enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assay. We recruited 63 males with acne vulgaris. Results: For mild, moderate, or severe acne, the meanserum 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 DHTwas 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 testosteronelevels between groups, although there was an increase in concentration by acne vulgaris severity