Deoxycorticosterone, Serum
Deoxycorticosterone, Serum
The deoxycorticosterone, serum test is used to measure the levels of 11-deoxycorticosterone (DOC) in the serum sample. Deoxycorticosterone is a mild mineralocorticoid that is converted by 11-beta-hydroxylase 2 or by 11-beta-hydroxylase 1 to corticosterone, which in turn is converted to aldosterone. In individuals suffering from congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to a lack of 11-beta-hydroxylase, the adrenal glands overproduce androgens (male sex hormones). Thus, getting this test done is recommended to help diagnose disorders of steroid synthesis.
Symptoms of CAH due to 11-beta-hydroxylase deficiency
Early puberty
Rapid growth that halts sooner than normal
Severe acne
Excess facial and body hair
Irregular menstrual periods or no periods at all
Hypertension (typically develops within the 1st year)
What is Deoxycorticosterone, Serum test used for?
It is recommended to take this test
If an individual has symptoms of CAH due to 11-beta-hydroxylase deficiency
To aid in the diagnosis of glucocorticoid-responsive hyperaldosteronism (aldosterone synthase hyperactivity)
To evaluate congenital adrenal hyperplasia newborn screen-positive children
Preparation for the test
Before the test, patients may be instructed to follow specific guidelines, such as fasting for a certain period or discontinuing certain medications. It is important to follow the recommendations of your healthcare provider to ensure the accuracy of the test results.
Interpretation of results
|
11-Deoxycorticosterone, Serum
|
Normal range |
|
≤18 years |
<344 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) |
|
>18 years |
10-79 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) |
Deviation from normal results indicates the following:
· Elevated levels of DOC may indicate a potential deficiency in 11-beta-hydroxylase. Lack of 11-beta-hydroxylase leads to the buildup of precursors required for the synthesis of cortisol and corticosterone in the adrenal glands, where they are converted into androgens.
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the deoxycorticosterone, serum 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.
Are there any risks associated with the deoxycorticosterone, serum test?
No, there are no associated risks with the deoxycorticosterone, serum test. It is a simple blood test that carries minimal risks, such as experiencing a slight sting or bruise at the needle insertion site. Typically, these discomforts subside within a short period of time, ranging from a few minutes to a couple of hours. In rare cases, there is a possibility of infection at the needle insertion site.
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the results of the deoxycorticosterone, serum test?
The deoxycorticosterone, serum test result is usually available within 1-8 days after sample collection. This duration may vary depending on the diagnostic clinic.
What considerations should be taken into account when conducting a deoxycorticosterone, serum test in newborns?
At the time of birth, levels of all adrenal steroids, such as mineral corticoids and sex steroids, along with their precursors, are elevated. Premature infants may exhibit even higher elevations due to illness and stress. It is recommended to conduct a follow-up test a few days or weeks after the initial test on a newborn.
What steps should someone take if their test results show abnormal levels of deoxycorticosterone?
It is advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare provider to undergo a comprehensive assessment, which may include further examinations and evaluation of potential risks. Subsequently, they will recommend a suitable treatment plan.
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