Total 17-Hydroxyandrostenedione and Androstenedione Ratio (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the ratio of two hormones involved in hormone balance, often checked in conditions affecting adrenal or gonadal function.
["Helps assess adrenal or reproductive hormone production and potential imbalances."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53337-2
- Short code
- 17OHCS+Androst/Cortis DBS-sRto
- Synonyms
- 17OHCS+Androst/Cortis DBS-sRto
- Category
- hormone
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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
The test evaluates two related steroid hormones: **17-hydroxyandrostenedione** and **androstenedione**. These compounds are precursors to sex hormones and play roles in metabolism, puberty, and reproductive health. The ratio helps identify whether production is elevated or suppressed, which can signal underlying endocrine disorders.
Why It’s Ordered
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like irregular periods, low libido, excessive hair growth, or signs of hormonal imbalances. It’s also used in evaluating conditions such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or adrenal tumors.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm. The sample is processed into either serum (after clotting) or plasma (using an anticoagulant). Results are based on the concentration ratio of the two hormones measured in the specimen.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but avoid alcohol or certain medications (like steroids) for 24 hours before testing, as they may affect hormone levels.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal ratios may indicate conditions like **Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)**, where the adrenal glands produce excessive hormones early in life, or **adrenal insufficiency**, where hormone production is too low. In women, elevated ratios may relate to PCOS or androgen excess, while low ratios could suggest pituitary or gonadal dysfunction. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Short name
17OHCS/Androstenedione Ratio
Frequently asked questions
When might I need this test?
How long will I wait for results?
Can I take anything to lower or raise hormone levels before testing?
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