HORMONE SCREENING Lab Tests

🧪 17-Alpha-Hydroxy progesterone (17-OHP) Test The 17-Alpha-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) test measures the level of 17-OHP, a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and, to a lesser extent, the gonads. It plays a key role in the production of cortisol and androgens. ✅ Why Is the 17-OHP Test Done? To screen for or diagnose Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) – especially 21-hydroxylase deficiency, the most common form To investigate ambiguous genitalia in newborns To assess early puberty or hirsutism in children or women To evaluate infertility or irregular menstrual cycles To monitor treatment of known CAH 📊 Typical Reference Ranges Age/Sex Normal 17-OHP Range (ng/dL)* Newborns (preterm) 200 – 4000 Newborns (full-term) < 300 Children < 100 Adult Males < 200 Adult Females (follicular phase) < 200 Adult Females (luteal phase) < 285 Postmenopausal Women < 51 🧪 *Ranges can vary by lab and assay method; results must be interpreted in context with symptoms and other tests. 🔬 High 17-OHP Levels May Indicate: Classical CAH (very high levels, often diagnosed at birth) Non-classical CAH (milder, may present in adolescence or adulthood) Adrenal tumors (rare) Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) (slight elevation) Congenital enzyme defects in cortisol synthesis 🧬 Test Details Sample Type: Blood (serum) Fasting Required: ❌ Not always, but morning sample is preferred Collection Timing: In women, usually done during the early follicular phase (Day 3–5 of menstrual cycle) Method: Immunoassay or LC-MS/MS 🧍‍♀️🧍‍♂️ Who Should Get This Test? Newborns (as part of CAH newborn screening) Women with: Hirsutism Irregular cycles Infertility Suspected PCOS Children with: Early or late puberty Ambiguous genitalia People with family history of CAH 📌 Summary Table Test What It Measures Use 17-OHP Precursor hormone to cortisol Diagnose CAH, monitor adrenal function, evaluate androgen excess