17-Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) Test

What is it?
17-Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) is a steroid hormone produced in the adrenal glands, ovaries, and testes. It acts as a precursor in the production of cortisol and androgens. A serum test measures 17-OHP levels in the blood to evaluate adrenal and reproductive health.

Uses of the Test

• Screening for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH):

  • CAH is a genetic disorder where the adrenal glands cannot properly produce cortisol.

  • Often included in newborn screening programs.

• Diagnosis and Monitoring of Adrenal Disorders:

  • Adrenal hyperplasia

  • Adrenal tumors

• Evaluation of Androgen Excess in Females:

  • Irregular or absent menstruation

  • Infertility

  • Hirsutism (excessive hair growth)

  • Acne or oily skin

• Assessment in Children with Abnormal Puberty:

  • Early or delayed puberty

  • Rapid growth or abnormal genital development

Symptoms That May Lead to the Test

• In infants: Ambiguous genitalia, dehydration, vomiting, poor feeding

• In children: Precocious puberty, rapid growth, early closure of growth plates

• In women: Irregular cycles, infertility, hirsutism, deepening voice, acne

• In men: Infertility, signs of adrenal or androgen disorders

Causes of Abnormal Levels

• High 17-OHP levels:

  • Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (especially 21-hydroxylase deficiency)

  • Adrenal tumors

  • Ovarian tumors

  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – sometimes mildly elevated

• Low 17-OHP levels:

  • Adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease)

  • Underactive adrenal glands

  • Certain medications or hormone therapies

Side Effects / Risks of the Test

Since the test involves a blood sample, risks are minimal and may include:

• Mild pain or bruising at the puncture site

• Rarely, dizziness or infection

Reference Ranges (Approximate, may vary by lab and age)

• Newborns: Can be temporarily high in the first days after birth

• Children: < 110 ng/dL

• Adult women (follicular phase): < 80 ng/dL

• Adult women (luteal phase): < 285 ng/dL

• Adult men: < 220 ng/dL