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Understanding Your Laboratory Test: What It Is, Why You Need It, and How to Prepare

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 10, 2026

A blood test that measures the level of 17-hydroxyprogesterone, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, primarily used to screen for and diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH).

Quick summary

{"17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) is a hormone made by the adrenal glands","This test is mainly used to screen for and diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)","A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm","Normal levels vary by age, sex, and in newborns","Elevated levels may indicate CAH or other adrenal disorders"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 10, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14569-8
Short code
17-OHP
Synonyms
17OHP SerPl-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum Separator Tube (SST) or plain red top tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.6
Ref high
9
Critical range
— – 30 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
Immunoassay (Chemiluminescence Immunoassay) or LC-MS/MS
CPT
83718
SNOMED
104150004
Specimen volume
1.0-2.0 mL serum minimum
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test, and what does it measure in my body?

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

Why might my doctor recommend this test for me, and what health conditions can it help detect?

This test is most commonly used to screen for and diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). CAH is a genetic disorder that affects the adrenal glands' ability to produce cortisol and sometimes aldosterone (a hormone that helps regulate salt balance). The test may also be used to monitor treatment for CAH or to evaluate adrenal gland function.

How is this test performed, and what can I expect during the procedure?

A healthcare provider will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The blood will be collected in a tube and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The test is quick and usually takes only a few minutes.

How should I prepare for this test, and will I need to fast, adjust my medications, or follow any other special instructions beforehand?

Generally, no special preparation (such as fasting) is needed for this test. However, tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, as some medicines can affect the test results. Follow any specific instructions your healthcare provider gives you.

What do my test results mean, how are normal and abnormal ranges determined, and how will my doctor use them to plan my next steps in care?

Normal levels of 17-OHP vary depending on age, sex, and whether the person has reached puberty. Your doctor will interpret your results based on these factors. Elevated levels may indicate CAH, while very low levels are usually not concerning.

Reference range

Adult males: 0.9-7.5 nmol/L; Adult females (follicular phase): 0.6-3.0 nmol/L; Adult females (luteal phase): 1.5-9.0 nmol/L; Newborns (1-7 days): 1.0-12.0 nmol/L; Children (1-12 months): 0.3-3.5 nmol/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No fasting required. Morning sample (between 7-10 AM) is preferred due to diurnal variation. Inform laboratory of current medications including corticosteroids and hormonal contraceptives.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Does this test hurt?
You may feel a brief sting or pinch when the needle is inserted to draw your blood. This is typically well-tolerated, and the discomfort usually goes away quickly. Some people may experience minor bruising at the injection site afterward.
What if my 17-OHP level is high?
High levels of 17-OHP usually indicate congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Your doctor will likely order additional tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the specific type of CAH. Early diagnosis is important for proper management and treatment.
Is this test only for babies?
No. While newborns commonly receive this test as part of CAH screening, people of all ages may need this test. Adults may need testing if they have symptoms of CAH, unexplained infertility, or if they are being monitored for a known adrenal condition.
How is CAH treated?
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia is typically treated with medication that replaces the hormones the adrenal glands cannot produce. This usually includes glucocorticoid medications (such as hydrocortisone or prednisone) to replace cortisol. Some patients may also need mineralocorticoid replacement. Treatment is lifelong and helps prevent symptoms and complications.
Can stress affect the test results?
Yes, significant physical stress can temporarily increase 17-OHP levels. It's important to inform your doctor if you were ill, had surgery, or experienced significant emotional stress before the test. Also, certain medications like steroids or birth control pills can affect the results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - 17-Hydroxyprogesterone TestSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Congenital Adrenal HyperplasiaSource
  3. 3
    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 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy