17-OH Progesterone (17-Hydroxy Progesterone)
About 17-OH Progesterone test
17-OH Progesterone test is used to measure 17-hydroxyprogesterone hormone in the blood. This hormone is produced by the adrenal glands and plays a crucial role in the synthesis of cortisol, a hormone that regulates various bodily functions such as metabolism, blood sugar levels, inflammation, and immune system responses. Elevated levels of 17-hydroxyprogesterone may suggest the presence of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), a medical condition. In some cases, excessively high levels of this hormone may also indicate the existence of an adrenal tumour.
It is recommended to undergo a 17 -OH Progesterone test to screen for, detect, and monitor treatment for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH).
This test is also known as
17-OHP, Progesterone - 17-OH
Symptoms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia
In infants or young child
Lack of energy
Vomiting and other feeding problems
Diarrhea
Dehydration
In children and teens
Rapid growth that halts sooner than normal
Early puberty
Severe acne
In girls and women
Excess facial and body hair
Irregular menstrual periods or no periods at all
Thinning hair on the head
Infertility
In boys and men
Enlarged penis with small testicles
Low sperm count
Infertility
Why is 17-OH Progesterone test done?
It is recommended to take this test
If an individual has symptoms of adrenal insufficiency or of CAH
To monitor 21-hydroxylase deficiency treatment
Test preparation
No special preparation is required for 17-OH Progesterone test.
Interpretation of the Test Results
The units of measurement for the results are nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL).
|
17 -OH Progesterone measured in |
Reference range |
|
Babies more than 24 hours old |
Less than 400 to 600 ng/dL |
|
Children before puberty |
Around 100 ng/dL |
|
Adults |
Less than 200 ng/dL |
Deviation from normal levels indicates the following:
· Elevated concentrations of 17-OHP in a newborn or infant are indicative of the likelihood of having CAH.
· If an individual exhibits moderately elevated levels, it is possible that they are experiencing a less severe form of CAH or may be affected by an 11-beta-hydroxylase deficiency, which is another enzyme defect commonly linked to CAH.
Low or declining concentrations in an individual with CAH suggest a positive response to the prescribed treatment. Conversely, elevated or rising levels may signify the need for adjustments in the treatment approach
FAQs
How is the sample collected for a 17-OH Progesterone test?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm using a small needle. Usually, this procedure does not take more than 5 minutes
What are the risks associated with a 17-OH Progesterone test?
This test involves negligible risk. There might be slight soreness or tenderness around the site where the blood is drawn. Rarely, the site can become infected
Can certain medications affect 17-OH Progesterone test results?
Yes, certain medications, such as corticosteroids can influence test results. It is important to let your healthcare provider know about any medications you are on before undergoing the 17-OHP test to ensure accurate results
What causes congenital adrenal hyperplasia?
The most prevalent cause of CAH is the deficiency or lack of an enzyme known as 21-hydroxylase, which is primarily influenced by genetic mutations. These mutations directly impact the levels of this particular enzyme. In rarer cases, CAH can also be attributed to the absence of another enzyme called 11-hydroxylase
Can CAH be inherited?
Yes. CAH is caused by an autosomal recessive genetic mutation, requiring both parents to possess a modified gene for the child to develop the condition. If both parents are carriers, there is a 25% chance for each child to inherit the condition
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