17-hydroxyprogesterone - serum
Last updated: Saturday, 19, June, 2010
| Item | Process |
|---|---|
| Specimen | 5 mL blood in plain tube. Some laboratories may offer an assay on dried blood spot on filter paper. |
| Method | Immunoassay. |
| Reference Interval | Depends on age - consult pathologist. |
| Application | Diagnosis, monitoring and management of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. It is included in neonatal screening programmes. In mildly affected patients, measurement after adrenal stimulation with Synacthen may be required to confirm the diagnosis. |
| Interpretation | An increased level indicates 21-hydroxylase deficiency. In patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency, monitoring treatment may require levels at various times of the day. Levels should not be markedly elevated and should not be suppressed immediately prior to the next dose of glucocorticoid. |
| Reference | White PC. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2001;15(1):17-41. |