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17ohpdbslcmsmsmcnc

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A blood test that measures the level of 17-hydroxyprogesterone, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, to help screen for certain genetic disorders.

Quick summary

{"Measures 17-OHP hormone levels from a blood sample (typically via heel stick in newborns)","Mainly used to screen for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)","Early detection helps prevent serious health complications","Elevated levels may indicate adrenal gland dysfunction","The test uses sensitive laboratory technology (LC/MS/MS) for accurate results"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
92726-9
Short code
17-OHP-DBS
Synonyms
17OHP DBS LC/MS/MS-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Dried blood spot (DBS) filter paper card (typically Whatman 903 or equivalent Guthrie card)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
30
Critical range
— – 50 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
lc-ms-ms
CPT
82533
SNOMED
313335005
Specimen volume
Approximately 75-100 μL of blood (3-4 complete circles filled on filter paper)
Stability
DBS specimens stable at room temperature (15-25°C) for up to 7 days, refrigerated (2-8°C) for 2-3 weeks, or frozen (-20°C or below) for extended periods. Protect from excessive heat and humidity.
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The 17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) test measures the amount of a specific hormone in the blood. This hormone is produced by the adrenal glands, which sit on top of your kidneys. The test is performed using a specialized laboratory method called LC/MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry), which provides highly accurate and precise measurements.

How is the sample collected?

For newborns, the sample is typically collected using a heel stick ( capillary blood). The blood may be placed on a special filter paper card as a dried blood spot (DBS). For older children and adults, a blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm. Note: Your healthcare provider has ordered this test using serum sample type, which requires a standard blood draw from a vein.

Why is this test important?

This test is primarily used as a screening tool for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), a group of inherited genetic disorders that affect the adrenal glands. In CAH, the adrenal glands produce abnormal amounts of certain hormones, which can lead to various health issues if not treated early. The test helps doctors identify this condition even before symptoms appear.

What do the results mean?

Normal 17-OHP levels vary by age. Higher than normal levels may suggest Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia or other adrenal gland disorders. Lower than normal levels are less common but may also require follow-up. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results based on your age, clinical symptoms, and other test results.

Reference range

Reference ranges vary by age and laboratory. Typical newborn screening cutoffs: <10 ng/mL (30 nmol/L) considered normal; 10-30 ng/mL borderline; >30 ng/mL requires follow-up. Adult reference: 0.2-1.0 ng/mL (0.6-3.0 nmol/L) for males, 0.2-0.8 ng/mL (0.6-2.4 nmol/L) for females.N/A

Specimen: serum

No fasting required. For newborn screening, collect heel stick blood drops onto specialized filter paper card (Guthrie card) allowing complete saturation. Allow specimen to air dry completely before transport. Avoid touching the spotted area. For venous collection, use EDTA tube and spot onto filter paper within 30 minutes of collection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is fasting required before this test?
No fasting is typically required for the 17-Hydroxyprogesterone test. You can eat and drink normally before the blood draw unless your healthcare provider instructs otherwise.
Does this test hurt?
For newborns, a heel stick may cause brief discomfort. For venous blood draws, you may feel a slight pinch when the needle is inserted. The discomfort is usually minimal and temporary.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results or discuss them at your follow-up appointment.
What happens if my baby's test result is high?
An elevated 17-OHP result does not confirm CAH but indicates the need for further testing. Your healthcare provider will likely order additional tests to confirm or rule out the diagnosis. It's important to follow up promptly.
Can this test diagnose other conditions?
While primarily used for CAH screening, the 17-OHP test may also help evaluate adrenal function in other conditions. Your doctor will determine if the test is appropriate for your specific situation.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - 17-HydroxyprogesteroneSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Congenital Adrenal HyperplasiaSource
  3. 3
    Nemours KidsHealth - Newborn Screening TestsSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy