Androstenedione and dehydroepiandrogen-sulfate (DHEA-sulfate) are major adrenal C19 steroids in man. We developed a radioimmunoassay for serum androstenedine and DHEA-sulfate. The present paper describes their levels in normal and osteoporotic cases. In conclusions: 1) Plasma concentrations of androstenedione decreased significantly in male with aging, but not in female. 2) Plasma concentrations of DHEA-sulfate fell significantly with aging. 3) At the age of 50 both hormones levels are higher in males but the common reduction with aging is stronger in males; thereby producing a convergence in the 70's.
4) A positive relation between androstenedione and DHEA-sulfate was noted.
5) Androstenedione concentrations were significantly reduced in osteoporosis group.
