17-Ketosteroids, 24-Hr Urine Test
About 17-Ketosteroids, 24-Hr Urine Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | 17-KS, 17-Ketosteroids Urine, Urinary 17-Ketosteroids, 17-KS Fractionation |
| Sample Type | 24-hour urine collection |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 5 days |
| Recommended For | All genders; adults and children |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,000 |
What is a 17-Ketosteroids, 24-Hr Urine Test?
The 17-Ketosteroids, 24-Hr urine test measures the total amount of 17-ketosteroid compounds excreted in urine over a full 24-hour period. These compounds are produced when the body breaks down androgens (male sex hormones) and related hormones made by the adrenal glands and testes. The test is also known as the 17-KS urine test or Urinary 17-Ketosteroids test. A doctor may order it when there are signs of abnormal hormone production linked to the adrenal glands or reproductive organs.
What Does a 17-Ketosteroids, 24-Hr Urine Test Measure?
This test measures several hormone breakdown products found in urine. Each compound reflects a different aspect of adrenal and gonadal hormone activity. The key substances measured are listed below.
| Compound | What it Reflects |
|---|---|
| Androstenedione | A precursor hormone that converts to testosterone or oestrogen |
| Androsterone | A breakdown product of testosterone |
| Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) | A hormone produced mainly by the adrenal glands |
| Hydroxyetiocholanolone | A metabolite from testosterone breakdown |
| Epiandrosterone | A metabolite from testosterone breakdown |
| Aetiocholanolone | A metabolite from testosterone and related hormones |
| Hydroxyandrosterone | A metabolite from testosterone breakdown |
Why is a 17-Ketosteroids, 24-Hr Urine Test Done?
A doctor may request the 17-Ketosteroids, 24-Hr urine test to investigate symptoms related to abnormal hormone levels or to assess adrenal gland function.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
Several symptoms may prompt a doctor to order this test. These include:
- Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, or back
- Persistent or severe acne
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Unexplained infertility
- Decreased sex drive
- Muscle weakness or unexplained fatigue
- Unexplained weight gain
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test can assist in identifying a range of hormonal and glandular conditions, including:
- Adrenal hyperplasia (abnormal growth of the adrenal glands)
- Adrenal carcinoma (cancer of the adrenal gland)
- Cushing syndrome (a condition caused by excess cortisol)
- Polycystic ovarian disease
- Testicular and ovarian tumours
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (an inherited disorder affecting adrenal hormone production)
- Primary and secondary hypogonadism (reduced hormone production by the gonads)
- Hypopituitarism (an underactive pituitary gland)
- Addison's disease (adrenal insufficiency)
17-Ketosteroids, 24-Hr Urine Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
This test is sometimes used to monitor treatment in patients with conditions such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Repeated measurements over time can help a doctor assess whether hormone levels are being kept within an acceptable range. In some cases, the test may be ordered periodically alongside other investigations to track how well adrenal disorders are responding to treatment.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Preparation for the 17-Ketosteroids, 24-Hr urine test is straightforward, but correct sample collection is essential for accurate results.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required for this test. You can eat and drink normally throughout the 24-hour collection period.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
A few simple steps will help ensure your sample is collected correctly and your results are reliable. Keep the following in mind:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and family history, as this is required for the test
- Tell your doctor about all medicines you are currently taking, including antibiotics, aspirin, birth control pills, diuretics (water pills), and oestrogen, as these can affect results
- Keep the collection container refrigerated throughout the collection period — do not freeze it
- Adequate refrigeration is the most important step in preserving the sample correctly
- Do not discard the collection container until your doctor confirms the sample has been submitted
Step-by-Step Procedure
The collection process for this 17-Ketosteroids test procedure is straightforward. Follow the steps below carefully.
- On the morning of your collection day, discard your first urine of the day. Note the exact time you did this, as this marks the start of your 24-hour collection period.
- From that point onwards, collect every urine sample passed over the next 24 hours into the sterile container provided.
- Before each collection, clean your genital area thoroughly to avoid contaminating the sample.
- Store the container in the refrigerator throughout the collection period. Keep it cool, but do not freeze it.
- At the end of 24 hours, seal the container lid firmly and label it with your name, date, and collection times.
- Return the sample (or a 5 ml aliquot as directed by the lab) to the Lupin Diagnostics collection centre or arrange pick-up, and ensure it stays refrigerated during transport.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Certain factors can interfere with your test results. Be aware of the following:
- Taking medications such as carbamazepine, digoxin, or reserpine (these can lower levels)
- Taking chloramphenicol, dexamethasone, or spironolactone (these can raise levels)
- Incomplete 24-hour urine collection
- Improper refrigeration of the sample
- High levels of physical or emotional stress
- Obesity and metabolic disorders
- Recent surgery, burns, or infections
Understanding Your 17-Ketosteroids, 24-Hr Urine Test Results
Your results show the total amount of 17-ketosteroids passed in urine over 24 hours. The table below lists reference ranges by age and sex.
| Group | Normal Range |
|---|---|
| Adult Males (general) | 10 to 20 mg per 24 hours |
| Adult Females (general) | 5 to 15 mg per 24 hours |
| Infants (0 to 11 months) | 0.0 to 1.0 mg per day |
| Children (1 to 5 years) | 1.0 to 2.0 mg per day |
| Children (6 to 10 years, Male) | 1.0 to 4.4 mg per day |
| Children (6 to 10 years, Female) | 1.4 to 3.9 mg per day |
| Adults 17 to 50 years (Male) | 5.3 to 17.6 mg per day |
| Adults 17 to 50 years (Female) | 4.4 to 14.2 mg per day |
| Adults over 50 years (Male) | 4.1 to 12.1 mg per day |
| Adults over 50 years (Female) | 3.2 to 10.6 mg per day |
These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
Certain situations can shift results even when no disease is present. Your doctor will consider these when reviewing your report.
- Physical stress from surgery, burns, or infections can raise 17-ketosteroid levels.
- Stimulation by ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) or gonadotropin can also increase levels.
- Medications such as corticosteroids, oestrogens, and oral contraceptives tend to lower levels.
- Conditions such as severe hypothyroidism (myxoedema), gout, and arthritis may also alter how much is excreted.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
These general wellness tips support hormonal balance as part of an everyday routine:
- Eat a balanced diet and maintain a healthy weight, as excess body fat can disrupt hormone levels
- Manage stress through regular sleep, relaxation, and moderate physical activity
- Attend routine health check-ups to monitor adrenal and hormonal function over time
Lupin Diagnostics 17-Ketosteroids, 24-Hr Urine Test Price and Home Collection
The 17-Ketosteroids test price at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹1,000, and home collection is available for this test. The table below shows approximate prices across major Indian cities based on available aggregator data.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| Mumbai | 1000 |
| Pune | 1000 |
| Bangalore | 1000 |
| Chennai | 1000 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
Booking the 17-Ketosteroids test online with Lupin Diagnostics is simple. Follow these steps:
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred time slot.
- Opt for home sample collection by a certified phlebotomist, or visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Home Collection
17-Ketosteroids test home collection is available across cities through Lupin Diagnostics. A trained phlebotomist will deliver the required sterile container and guide you on the collection process. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories, and digital reports are shared directly with you once ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
This test measures androgen-related hormone breakdown products in urine collected over 24 hours. It helps doctors assess adrenal gland function and identify hormone imbalances. It is used in the investigation of conditions such as adrenal hyperplasia, Cushing syndrome, and polycystic ovary syndrome.
Start by discarding your first morning urine and noting the time. Collect all urine passed over the following 24 hours into the sterile container provided. Keep the container refrigerated throughout, seal it securely, and return it to the lab as instructed.
No fasting is required. You can eat and drink as normal during the collection period. However, let your doctor know about any medications you are taking, as some can affect your results.
Several medicines can alter 17-ketosteroid levels. These include carbamazepine, digoxin, and reserpine (which may lower levels) and chloramphenicol, dexamethasone, and spironolactone (which may raise levels). Always share a complete list of your medicines with your doctor before the test.
No. This test uses a 24-hour urine collection, not a blood sample. There is no needle involved, and the process is entirely non-invasive. You collect urine at home over one full day and return the sample to the laboratory.
Elevated levels may suggest conditions such as Cushing syndrome, adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal carcinoma, polycystic ovary syndrome, or tumours of the testes or ovaries. Your doctor will review the result alongside your symptoms and medical history before drawing any conclusions.
Yes. More specific tests are now available for assessing adrenal androgen function, such as the Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulphate (DHEAS) serum test. Your doctor will advise which test is most appropriate for your clinical situation.
17-Ketosteroids, 24-Hr Urine Test
