Understanding 17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP)
17-OHP is a natural hormone produced as part of the body’s steroid biosynthesis pathway. It acts as a precursor that is converted into cortisol, a hormone that regulates energy, blood sugar, blood pressure, and the immune system. Additionally, 17-OHP is involved in producing sex hormones like androgens that influence sexual development and reproductive health.
Why Is 17-OHP Important?
Hormone Pathway Intermediate: 17-OHP is essential for making cortisol and adrenal androgens. Disruptions in its levels can signal problems in adrenal or gonadal hormone production.
Diagnosis Tool: Elevated 17-OHP levels are commonly tested to diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), a genetic disorder affecting cortisol synthesis, often due to 21-hydroxylase enzyme deficiency.
Health Implications: Abnormal 17-OHP can lead to symptoms like early puberty, hirsutism, infertility, or hormone imbalances in children and adults.
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How Is 17-OHP Tested?
A simple blood test measures the amount of 17-OHP circulating in your bloodstream. It helps identify adrenal gland disorders and monitor treatment effectiveness for hormone imbalances.
When to Be Tested?
Newborn screening for CAH
Unexplained symptoms of androgen excess or hormone imbalance
Monitoring hormonal treatments or adrenal gland conditions
