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17ohp30mpchalserplmcnc

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

A blood test measuring 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels 30 minutes after a stimulation challenge to help diagnose adrenal gland disorders.

Quick summary

{"Measures hormone levels to check for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)","Involves a blood test taken 30 minutes after a hormonal stimulation","Helps doctors evaluate adrenal gland function","Commonly used in newborn screening and adult diagnosis","Results help distinguish between different adrenal disorders"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
48340-4
Short code
17-OHP post-ACTH
Synonyms
17OHP 30M p chal SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum Separator Tube (SST/Gold top) or Plain Red Top Tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
7
Ref high
18
Critical range
— – 20 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
Chemiluminescence Immunoassay (CLIA) or Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
CPT
83498
SNOMED
313295006
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. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The 17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) test measures the amount of a specific hormone called 17-hydroxyprogesterone in your blood. This hormone is produced by the adrenal glands, which sit on top of your kidneys. The test is performed 30 minutes after receiving a hormonal challenge (usually ACTH stimulation), which helps doctors see how your adrenal glands respond to stress.

Why is it done?

This test is primarily used to screen for and diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), a genetic condition that affects the adrenal glands' ability to produce certain hormones. It may also be used to evaluate adrenal gland function and distinguish between different types of adrenal disorders. In newborns, this test is part of routine screening in many countries.

How is the test performed?

First, a healthcare provider will give you a medication (usually synthetic ACTH) through an injection. After exactly 30 minutes, a blood sample will be taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. You may be asked to fast or avoid certain medications before the test, so follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Are there any risks?

The risks are minimal and similar to routine blood tests. You may experience slight pain, bruising, or dizziness at the injection site. The hormonal stimulation may cause temporary flushing, headache, or mild nausea in some people. These side effects usually resolve quickly.

Reference range

Reference range varies by laboratory and assay method. For adults, 30 minutes post-ACTH stimulation: typically 7.0-18.0 ng/dL (210-540 pmol/L). Results should be interpreted in clinical context.N/A

Specimen: serum

No fasting required. Inform patient about ACTH (Cosyntropin) stimulation test procedure. Test involves baseline draw followed by ACTH administration and second draw at 30 minutes. Document current medications, especially corticosteroids.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Frequently asked questions

How long does the test take?
The entire procedure takes about 45-60 minutes, including the 30-minute wait after the stimulation injection and the blood draw. The laboratory analysis itself may take several days.
Do I need to prepare for the test?
Follow your doctor's instructions about fasting and medication adjustments. Some medications, particularly corticosteroids and hormone therapies, may affect results. Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.
What do high levels mean?
Significantly elevated 17-OHP levels after stimulation strongly suggest congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Your doctor may recommend additional tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the specific type.
What do normal levels mean?
Normal 17-OHP response after stimulation indicates proper adrenal gland function and makes CAH unlikely. However, your doctor will interpret results based on your individual situation.
Is this test safe for children?
Yes, the test is commonly performed in children, including newborns as part of screening programs. The procedure is well-tolerated, and healthcare providers take special care to make children comfortable.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - 17-HydroxyprogesteroneSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - 17-HydroxyprogesteroneSource
  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