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Diagnostic Tests – 17-Hydroxyprogesterone Level
1. What is this test?
The 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) level is a screening blood test used to diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), most commonly due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency. In this condition, impaired cortisol synthesis leads to accumulation of 17-hydroxyprogesterone, which is shunted into androgen production.
2. When do you answer it?
You should select a 17-hydroxyprogesterone level when the clinical scenario suggests excess androgen production or impaired adrenal steroid synthesis, including:
In exam settings, these presentations strongly point toward 21-hydroxylase deficiency, making 17-hydroxyprogesterone the best initial diagnostic test.
1. What is this test?
The 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) level is a screening blood test used to diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), most commonly due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency. In this condition, impaired cortisol synthesis leads to accumulation of 17-hydroxyprogesterone, which is shunted into androgen production.
2. When do you answer it?
You should select a 17-hydroxyprogesterone level when the clinical scenario suggests excess androgen production or impaired adrenal steroid synthesis, including:
- Female infant with ambiguous genitalia (simple virilizing form)
- Infant with hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, and hypotension (salt-wasting crisis)
- Young woman with hirsutism, acne, and irregular menses
- Child with precocious puberty
In exam settings, these presentations strongly point toward 21-hydroxylase deficiency, making 17-hydroxyprogesterone the best initial diagnostic test.
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