17-Ketosteroids, Urine (24-Hour Test)

What it is:
The test measures the amount of 17-ketosteroids, which are breakdown products of androgens and adrenal hormones, in a 24-hour urine sample.

Uses

• Diagnose adrenal gland disorders

• Detect adrenal tumors or adrenal hyperplasia

• Evaluate androgen production in both men and women

Symptoms That May Lead to the Test

• Early puberty

• Excessive hair growth in women (hirsutism)

• Infertility

• Masculinization in women

• Suspected adrenal or testicular tumors

Abnormal Results

• High levels:

  • Adrenal hyperplasia

  • Adrenal tumors

  • Cushing’s syndrome

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

• Low levels:

  • Addison’s disease

  • Pituitary insufficiency

  • Low androgen production

Risks / Side Effects

• No direct risks.

• The main drawback is the inconvenience of collecting urine for 24 hours.