17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP)

• Test Name: 17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) Test
• Test Type: Hormonal assay
• Specimen Required: Blood sample (serum or plasma)
• Methodology: The test measures the level of 17-hydroxyprogesterone, a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and gonads, using immunoassay techniques.
• Purpose: Primarily used to screen for and diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), a genetic disorder that affects hormone production.

• Screening for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH): This test is commonly used to screen newborns for CAH, a genetic disorder that affects cortisol production.
• Diagnosis of Hormonal Disorders: Helps in diagnosing hormonal disorders related to adrenal gland dysfunction and assessing related conditions like adrenal tumors.
• Monitoring Treatment: Used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment in individuals diagnosed with CAH or other adrenal disorders.
• Evaluating Infertility: The test may also be used to investigate infertility issues related to adrenal hormone imbalances.

• Sample Collection: Blood sample collected from a vein, typically after fasting, depending on clinical recommendations.
• Hormonal Measurement: The 17-OHP levels are measured using immunoassays or mass spectrometry methods.
• Reference Ranges: Results are compared to normal reference ranges, which vary by age, gender, and clinical condition.

• Normal Levels: Vary based on age, gender, and time of the day, as levels are typically higher in the morning.
• Elevated 17-OHP: Higher levels indicate possible CAH, adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal tumours, or ovarian cysts.
• Low or Normal 17-OHP: This may suggest that the adrenal glands are functioning properly, ruling out conditions like CAH.
• Clinical Correlation: This should be interpreted in conjunction with other diagnostic tests such as cortisol levels, ACTH stimulation tests, or genetic testing for CAH.

• Quantitative Measurement: Results provide the exact concentration of 17-hydroxyprogesterone in nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL).
• Turnaround Time: Typically, results are available within 1 to 3 days.
• Reporting: The report includes the 17-OHP levels compared to age- and gender-specific reference ranges, which helps guide clinical management.
• Clinical Actions: Based on the results, additional testing or changes in treatment may be recommended by the healthcare provider, especially in CAH cases.

Q. What is the 17-Hydroxyprogesterone test?
The 17-OHP test measures the level of the steroid hormone 17-hydroxyprogesterone in your blood, which helps assess adrenal gland function and diagnose certain disorders like congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)
 

Q. Why is the 17-Hydroxyprogesterone test performed?
It is primarily used to screen for CAH, a genetic disorder affecting hormone production, and to monitor the treatment of adrenal-related conditions
 

Q. How is the 17-Hydroxyprogesterone test performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in the morning when hormone levels are highest, and then analyzed in a lab
 

Q. What do elevated 17-Hydroxyprogesterone levels mean?
High levels of 17-OHP may indicate CAH, adrenal tumours, or hormonal imbalances related to adrenal hyperplasia or ovarian disorders
 

Q. What is congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)?
CAH is a genetic disorder that affects the adrenal glands' ability to produce cortisol, often leading to elevated 17-OHP levels. This test helps diagnose the condition
 

Q. Do I need to prepare for the 17-Hydroxyprogesterone test?
Fasting or specific preparation may be required, depending on your healthcare provider’s instructions. It's best to take the test early in the morning when hormone levels peak
 

Q. What happens if my 17-Hydroxyprogesterone levels are abnormal?
Abnormal levels may require additional testing, such as an ACTH stimulation test or genetic testing, to confirm a diagnosis or guide treatment options