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17ohpmsmtur

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

A urine test that measures 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels to help diagnose adrenal gland disorders.

Quick summary

{"Measures hormone levels produced by the adrenal glands","Mainly used to screen for and monitor congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)","Requires a 24-hour urine collection","Results help doctors assess adrenal gland function","Important for both children and adults with hormone-related symptoms"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111084-0
Short code
17-OHP Urine
Synonyms
17OHP Msmt Ur
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Clean-catch urine container or 24-hour urine collection container with preservative
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.5
Ref high
5
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) or Immunoassay
CPT
83498
SNOMED
313110003
Specimen volume
Minimum 10 mL for random collection; complete 24-hour collection volume for timed samples
Stability
Refrigerated: 7-14 days; Frozen (-20°C): several months. Protect from light.
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
48–168 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The 17-Hydroxyprogesterone test measures the amount of 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) in your urine. 17-OHP is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which are small glands located on top of your kidneys. This hormone is an important intermediate in the production of cortisol, a stress hormone that helps your body respond to illness and stress.

Why is this test done?

This test is primarily ordered to help diagnose and monitor congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), a genetic condition that affects the adrenal glands' ability to produce cortisol and sometimes aldosterone. It may also be used to evaluate symptoms such as early puberty, irregular periods, excessive hair growth, or unexplained weight changes. In newborns, it is often part of routine screening programs to detect CAH early.

How is the test performed?

For this test, you will need to collect all urine produced over a 24-hour period. Your healthcare provider will give you a special container for collection. During the collection period, keep the container refrigerated or in a cool place. Make sure to label the container with your name, date, and the exact times you started and finished collecting. Return the completed collection to the lab as instructed.

How to prepare for the test?

Follow any specific instructions from your healthcare provider. You may need to avoid certain medications, such as corticosteroids or birth control pills, before the test as they can affect results. Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking. For accurate results, it is important to collect all urine during the 24-hour period and avoid missing any samples.

Reference range

Reference range varies by laboratory and methodology. Typically: 0.5-5.0 µg/24h (24-hour collection) or 0.5-5.0 ng/mL (random urine). Consult laboratory-specific reference ranges.N/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Avoid contamination of urine sample with menstrual blood. Inform laboratory of current medications including corticosteroids and hormonal therapies.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is fasting required for this test?
Fasting is typically not required for a urine 17-hydroxyprogesterone test. However, follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or testing facility.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually 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.
Can this test detect other conditions?
While primarily used for CAH, abnormal 17-OHP levels may also indicate other adrenal disorders or rare enzyme deficiencies. Your doctor will interpret the results in relation to your overall clinical picture.
Is the test safe?
Yes, this test is very safe. It only requires urine collection and carries no physical risks. Some people may find the 24-hour collection process inconvenient, but it is not painful or harmful.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - 17-HydroxyprogesteroneSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Congenital Adrenal HyperplasiaSource
  3. 3
    National Institutes of Health - 17-Hydroxyprogesterone TestSource

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