17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP)

Overview
Ordering info

Description:

Measurement of 17a-hydroxyprogesterone is used in the diagnosis and management of patients with classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency. It is also useful in identifying and excluding late-onset forms of CAH in patients presenting with hirsutism and infertility.

Clinical details:

Deficiency of 21-hydroxylase activity leads to an increased concentration of the immediate precursor, 17a-hydroxyprogesterone, in the peripheral circulation. Inability of the adrenal glands to synthesise glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids stimulates over-production of ACTH from the pituitary which in turn drives the production of adrenal androgens.

Note: Deficiency of 11b-hydroxylase activity also causes an increased concentration of 17a-hydroxyprogesterone in the peripheral circulation but measurement of 11-deoxycortisol should be used for this diagnosis.

Reference range:

Male and female 0-5 days 0 - 3nmol/L.
Male and female 5 days to 16 years 0 - 4nmol/L.
Male 16 and over 0 - 5nmol/L.
Female 16 and over 0 - 5nmol/L - results may be higher in luteal phase
Post 250ug Synacthen stimulation
Normal at 30 mins < 10nmol/L

Units:

nmol/L

Department:

Reference Biochemistry Department

Location:

Viapath at King's College Hospital

Sample type and Volume required:

Clotted (yellow SST) preferred, but EDTA plasma also accepted. Volume required: 250uL; Absolute minimum required: 100uL.

Turnaround time:

1 week

Special sample instructions:

In neonates the sample should be taken at least 48 hours post birth.