17-Oh Progesterone

17 OHP along with Cortisol and Androstenedione constitutes the best screening test for Congenital adrenal hyperplasia caused by either 11 or 21 hydroxylase deficiency. It is also useful to evaluate females with hirsutism and infertility. 17 OH progesterone means an endogenous (formed within the body) progesterone steroid hormone. 17 OH progesterone is a progesterone-related hormone. This hormone is part of the process of the biosynthesis of steroids. 17 OH progesterone is neither the raw material nor end product of the biosynthesis. Yet, it is essential for the process. The adrenal glands produce the hormone 17 Hydroxyprogesterone (17 OH progesterone). Adrenal glands are pairs of small endocrine glands. Each kidney has one on top of it. 17 OH progesterone is converted to cortisol with the help of specific enzymes or proteins. Cortisol is produced in smaller amounts all of the time. The production of cortisol increases under stressful conditions. Cortisol levels rise under both physical and emotional stress. It also has a role in regulating the metabolism and the immune system. People who lack the necessary enzymes may develop cortisol deficiency. Cortisol deficiency results in the accumulation of 17 OH progesterone in the blood. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a disorder Characterised by high amounts of 17 OH progesterone. It is a glandular disorder in which the adrenal glands are unable to produce enough cortisol. In congenital adrenal hyperplasia, the production of male sex hormones known as androgens is increased. Both male and female children can be born with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. It can cause ambiguous genitalia, pubic hair and acne in young children. Later in life, the disease can manifest itself in less prominent ways. Excessive body hair and a deeper voice are common symptoms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia can cause dehydration or shock in newborns. Both of these are life-threatening illnesses. As a result, every newborn’s initial medical evaluation should include a 17 OH progesterone test. The 17 OH progesterone is used for the diagnosis of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. When a young child, teenager or adult exhibits some of the characteristic symptoms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a doctor will usually request a 17 OH progesterone test. The earlier the congenital adrenal hyperplasia is detected and treated, the fewer are the chances of complications.