Preferred Sample Type

17 alpha hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP)

Suitable Specimen Types

Serum

17 alpha hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP)

Specimen Volume

1 mL blood

Sample Preparation

Centrifuge on receipt

Turnaround Time

5 working days

Sample Processing In Laboratory

Usual sample processing

Sample Stability

No special storage conditions

General Information

17alpha-Hydroxyprogesterone is an intermediate in the biosynthesis of cortisol. Deficiency of either 11- or 21-hydroxylase activities leads to an increased concentration of 17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone in the peripheral circulation. This test is less valuable in 11-hydroxylase deficiency, where 11-deoxycortisol is the analyte of choice. 'Functional' deficiencies of 21-hydroxylase and 11-hydroxylase have been described. Indications: a) Diagnosis of congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency. b) Monitoring the response to corticosteroid therapy in congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency. 3) Identification of heterozygotes for congenital adrenal hyperplasia and diagnosis of mild congenital adrenal hyperplasia (also referred to as late-onset and cryptic forms).

Patient Preparation

 None

Notes

Arrangements for urgent endocrine tests, e.g. neonatal 17-hydroxyprogesterone, should be made via the Duty Biochemist on extension 16543 during normal working hours.

Lithium Heparin samples ok for paediatric samples.

Reference Range

Adults

Female (follicular phase): 0.6 – 4.0 nmol/L

Female (luteal phase): 1.0 – 6.0 nmol/L

Male: 1.2 – 3.7 nmol/L

Paediatrics

Neonates: <8.0 nmol/L
Female & male Tanner stage 1: <5.0 nmol/L

Specifications

  • EQA Status: Enrolled in EQA scheme
  • EQAS Scheme: Yes

General Information

General information about the website and its content

Location of Laboratories

Where the laboratories are located and information about the services offered at each laboratory