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17ohp24hursrate

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

This test measures the amount of 17-hydroxyprogesterone in a 24-hour urine collection to help diagnose adrenal gland disorders.

Quick summary

{"17-OHP is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands","This test helps diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)","A 24-hour urine collection is required for accurate results","Abnormal results may indicate adrenal gland dysfunction","Results help doctors monitor treatment effectiveness"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14571-4
Short code
17-OHP 24h U
Synonyms
17OHP 24h Ur-sRate
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
24-hour urine collection container with preservative (typically boric acid or hydrochloric acid)
Units
N/A
Ref low
5
Ref high
30
Critical range
— – 100 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
CPT
83498
SNOMED
31316003
Specimen volume
Complete 24-hour collection (typically 1000-2000 mL total volume, exact volume must be recorded)
Stability
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
72–168 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The 17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) test measures the level of 17-hydroxyprogesterone in your urine. 17-OHP is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands as a byproduct during the process of making cortisol, an important stress hormone. This test uses a 24-hour urine collection to get the most accurate measurement of hormone levels over a full day.

How is the test performed?

For this test, you will collect all urine you produce over a 24-hour period. You will be given a special container to collect your urine. On the first day, you will start collecting after your first morning urine and continue until the same time the next morning. During collection, keep the container refrigerated or in a cool place. Return the complete collection to your healthcare provider as instructed.

Why is this test important?

This test is primarily used to help diagnose and monitor conditions affecting the adrenal glands, especially congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). CAH is a genetic disorder that affects the adrenal glands' ability to produce cortisol and aldosterone. Early detection and treatment of CAH is important to prevent serious health problems.

How to prepare for the test?

Your doctor may ask you to stop certain medications before the test, as some drugs can affect hormone levels. Tell your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking. Follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare team. It is important to drink adequate fluids during the collection period unless otherwise directed.

Reference range

Adults: 5.0-30.0 nmol/24h; Children (1-10 years): 1.0-10.0 nmol/24h; Neonates: 0.5-5.0 nmol/24h. Reference ranges may vary by laboratory methodology.N/A

Specimen: urine

Collect all urine in a 24-hour period. Begin collection after the first morning urine void and continue until the same time the following morning. Record total collection volume. Keep container refrigerated during collection. Avoid contamination with toilet paper or feces. Inform laboratory of any medications being taken.

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 this test. However, follow your doctor's specific instructions. Stay well-hydrated during the collection period unless told otherwise.
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.
What do high 17-OHP levels mean?
High 17-OHP levels may suggest congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) or other adrenal gland disorders. Your doctor will interpret the results based on your symptoms, medical history, and other test results.
Can medications affect the test results?
Yes, certain medications can affect 17-OHP levels. These include corticosteroids, birth control pills, and some hormone treatments. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking before the test.
Is this test only for children?
No, this test is used for patients of all ages. While CAH is often diagnosed in infancy or childhood, adults can also have adrenal disorders that require this test for diagnosis and monitoring.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - 17-HydroxyprogesteroneSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - 17-Hydroxyprogesterone, UrineSource
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy