Serum/plasma concentration of 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) measured by immunoassay
This test measures the amount of 17-hydroxyprogesterone, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, in your blood. It’s often used to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting hormone production.
["17-OHP helps assess adrenal function and potential genetic disorders like congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 11829-9
- Short code
- Ovary-L Diam.hilum-cort US.meas
- Synonyms
- Ovary-L Diam.hilum-cort US.meas
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- us-measured
- 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
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unusual growth spurts, early puberty, or signs of hormone imbalances. It’s also used to evaluate suspected genetic conditions that affect hormone production, particularly in children or those with family history of adrenal disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the blood draw if your doctor specifies it. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as some may affect results.
What the Test Measures
17-Hydroxyprogesterone is a hormone precursor in the adrenal gland’s steroid synthesis pathway. Elevated levels may indicate conditions like congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), while lower levels could suggest adrenal insufficiency or other hormone-related disorders.
Common Uses and Conditions
This test is primarily used to diagnose or confirm congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), a genetic disorder causing adrenal gland dysfunction. It may also guide treatment decisions for conditions affecting hormone balance.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Elevated 17-OHP levels strongly suggest congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), particularly in newborns or children with signs of early puberty or growth abnormalities. Low levels may indicate adrenal insufficiency or other adrenal dysfunctions, though further evaluation is needed to determine the exact cause. Results help guide medical management and prevent complications like electrolyte imbalances or hormonal imbalances.
Short name
17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) level
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low 17-OHP level mean?
Does fasting affect this test?
Can this test be done at home?
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy