Testing for androstenedione is used to determine how well the adrenal gland, the ovaries, or the testicles are working as well as how many hormones are produced that are important for the growth of male sex organs and physical traits in males (androgens).
An androstenedione level can be used to determine:
If DHEAS and testosterone testing results are abnormal, evaluate adrenal gland function and distinguish between androgen-secreting conditions caused by the adrenal glands and those caused by the ovaries or testicles.
 Help distinguish ovarian or testicular tumors and cancers from tumors in the outer layer (cortex) of the adrenal gland or tumors outside the adrenal gland that secrete ACTH (ectopic).
Diagnose and monitor congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) treatment, in addition to testosterone and 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels, for example.
In women with abnormal DHEAS, testosterone, and other hormones such as FSH, LH, prolactin, and estrogen levels, this test can help diagnose polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and rule out other causes of infertility, no monthly menstrual periods (amenorrhea), and excess body and facial hair (hirsutism).
 Look into and identify the cause of male physical characteristics in young girls and early puberty in young boys.
Assist in determining the cause of delayed puberty and investigate possible ovarian or testicular failure.
