METHODS: Twenty two ADPKD patients and 27 healthy subjects were enrolled. Basal dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEAS) levels and cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone responses to low dose short adrenocorticotropin stimulation test were assessed. Correlation analyses of these parameters with glomerular filtration rates, renal volumes and pain characteristics in patients with ADPKD were done.