Triple Hormone Profile: Cortisol (serum/plasma), Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) (serum/plasma), and 17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) (serum/plasma)
This test measures three hormones involved in adrenal function, sex hormone regulation, and stress response. It’s often used to evaluate adrenal gland health, hormone imbalances, or conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
["Assesses adrenal and sex hormone balance with three key hormones in one test."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40336-0
- Short code
- GH 30M p Triple Bolus SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- GH 30M p Triple Bolus SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
Cortisol is a stress hormone produced by your adrenal glands. Elevated levels may indicate chronic stress, Cushing’s syndrome, or adrenal tumors. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) is a precursor to sex hormones and stress hormones. Low levels may suggest adrenal insufficiency. 17-Hydroxyprogesterone is a marker for fetal adrenal function and can help diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a genetic condition affecting hormone production.
Why It’s Ordered
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight changes, fatigue, high blood pressure, or signs of hormonal imbalances. It’s also used in diagnosing conditions like Cushing’s disease, adrenal tumors, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia, especially in children.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is processed into either serum (liquid after clotting) or plasma (liquid after centrifugation) for testing. You may be asked to fast before the test, depending on the specific hormone being measured.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is always required, but some hormones (like cortisol) may need fasting or specific timing around your natural cortisol cycle (e.g., morning vs. evening). Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal levels of these hormones can indicate underlying health issues. For example, high cortisol may signal Cushing’s syndrome or excessive stress, while low cortisol could point to adrenal insufficiency. Decreased DHEA-S may reflect aging or adrenal problems, and elevated 17-OHP can help diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia, especially in newborns or children with suspected genetic disorders.
Short name
Triple Hormone Panel
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does it mean if my results are out of range?
Can I take anything before the blood draw?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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