17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) is a steroid hormone intermediate in the adrenal cortisol biosynthesis pathway, measured here by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS), which offers superior specificity and accuracy compared to immunoassay methods. It serves as the primary biochemical marker for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency, the most common inherited disorder of adrenal steroidogenesis. LC/MS methodology minimizes cross-reactivity with structurally similar steroids, making it the preferred technique for confirmatory and monitoring purposes. 17-OHP is produced primarily in the adrenal cortex as an intermediate in the conversion of progesterone to cortisol, with smaller contributions from the gonads and placenta during pregnancy. Under normal conditions, 21-hydroxylase converts 17-OHP to 11-deoxycortisol; when this enzyme is deficient, 17-OHP accumulates and is shunted toward androgen synthesis, leading to androgen excess. Levels exhibit diurnal variation, are influenced by the menstrual cycle phase in women, and are physiologically elevated in neonates and during the luteal phase.
17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) is a hormone made by your adrenal glands as part of the process of producing cortisol, your body's main stress hormone. When measured by a highly precise method called LC/MS, this test helps doctors determine whether your adrenal glands are working properly. High levels of 17-OHP can indicate a genetic condition called congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), where a missing enzyme causes hormone imbalances that can lead to symptoms like excess body hair, irregular periods, or fertility issues. This test is also used to monitor people already diagnosed with CAH to ensure their treatment is working correctly. Your doctor will interpret your results alongside your symptoms, other hormone levels, and your personal health history.
When elevated: Markedly elevated 17-OHP strongly suggests classic CAH (salt-wasting or simple virilizing forms) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency; moderately elevated levels may indicate non-classic CAH, adrenal tumors, or luteal phase sampling in women. Elevated values in the context of androgen excess symptoms warrant further evaluation including ACTH stimulation testing and genetic analysis. When low: Low or suppressed 17-OHP levels may be seen with exogenous glucocorticoid use (adrenal suppression), adrenal insufficiency, or hypopituitarism. In patients being treated for CAH, low levels may indicate over-treatment with glucocorticoids.
17-OHP is not a primary performance or training-recovery marker for most athletes. However, elevated levels may indicate CAH or adrenal dysfunction, which can affect energy metabolism, electrolyte balance, and recovery—relevant if an athlete has symptoms like fatigue, poor recovery, or unexplained performance decline. This test is mainly diagnostic rather than performance-optimization focused.
Turnaround Time
3 days (up to 7 days)
Fasting Required
No
Method
LC/MS
verifiedGold StandardMass spectrometry — higher accuracy, especially at low concentrations
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Versus the typical direct-to-consumer retail price for this test (illustrative — consumer prices vary by provider and region).
$20.00
$22.00
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