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17-Alpha-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP)

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

This biomarker measures the levels of 17-Alpha-Hydroxyprogesterone, a steroid hormone involved in the production of cortisol and sex hormones.

Quick summary

17-OHP levels help diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia and other disorders of the adrenal glands.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
ng/dL
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Roche ALP, Abbott ALP, Siemens ALP
interpretation: {"text":"0–250 ng/dL: Levels within this range are considered normal and suggest typical adrenal function.","label":"Normal"}; {"text":">250 ng/dL: Levels above this range may indicate congenital adrenal hyperplasia or other adrenal disorders.","label":"Elevated"}

17-Alpha-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) is a crucial precursor in the biosynthesis of cortisol and sex hormones such as androgen and estrogen. Its levels are essential for assessing the proper functioning of the adrenal glands.

Elevated levels of 17-OHP are often indicative of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), a group of genetic disorders affecting adrenal steroidogenesis. Testing for 17-OHP is commonly used to confirm a diagnosis of CAH.

Additionally, abnormal 17-OHP levels can also suggest other conditions such as adrenal tumors or ovarian tumors. Monitoring 17-OHP levels is vital for managing treatment strategies for these conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary use of the 17-OHP test?
The 17-OHP test is primarily used to diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and monitor treatment effectiveness.
Can lifestyle changes affect 17-OHP levels?
Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise generally do not significantly impact 17-OHP levels, as they are primarily influenced by genetic and hormonal factors.
  1. 1
    Mayo Clinic: 17-Hydroxyprogesterone TestSource
  2. 2
    National Institutes of Health: Congenital Adrenal HyperplasiaSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy