Steroid Panel for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) Test
Comprehensive Adrenal Function Assessment
The Steroid Panel for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) Test represents a sophisticated diagnostic approach to evaluating adrenal gland function and detecting congenital adrenal hyperplasia disorders. This comprehensive panel utilizes advanced liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) technology to provide precise measurements of multiple steroid hormones simultaneously, offering clinicians valuable insights into adrenal steroidogenesis pathways.
What is Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia?
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia refers to a group of inherited genetic disorders affecting the adrenal glands’ ability to produce cortisol, aldosterone, and other essential hormones. These conditions result from enzyme deficiencies in the steroid biosynthesis pathway, leading to hormonal imbalances that can have significant health consequences if left undiagnosed and untreated.
What the Test Measures and Detects
Our comprehensive steroid panel evaluates 10 critical biomarkers to provide a complete picture of adrenal function:
- Androstenedione – Precursor to testosterone and estrogen
- Cortisol – Primary stress hormone and glucocorticoid
- 11-Deoxycortisol – Cortisol precursor indicating 11-beta-hydroxylase deficiency
- DHEA – Major adrenal androgen precursor
- 17-Hydroxyprogesterone – Key marker for 21-hydroxylase deficiency
- Progesterone – Essential steroid hormone precursor
- Testosterone Total – Primary male sex hormone
- 11-Deoxycorticosterone – Mineralocorticoid precursor
- 21-Deoxycortisol – Specific marker for 21-hydroxylase deficiency
- 17-Hydroxyprogesterone + 21-Deoxycortisol:Cortisol Ratio – Enhanced diagnostic accuracy
Who Should Consider This Test
Clinical Indications and Symptoms
This test is recommended for individuals presenting with:
- Newborns and Infants: Ambiguous genitalia, salt-wasting crisis, failure to thrive
- Children: Precocious puberty, accelerated growth, early pubic hair development
- Adolescents and Adults: Irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, hirsutism, acne
- Both Genders: Unexplained fatigue, low blood pressure, salt craving
- Family History: Known CAH in relatives or consanguineous parents
Benefits of Taking the Steroid Panel Test
Early Detection and Proper Management
- Accurate Diagnosis: Precise identification of specific enzyme deficiencies
- Timely Intervention: Early treatment prevents adrenal crises and complications
- Personalized Treatment: Tailored hormone replacement therapy based on specific deficiencies
- Genetic Counseling: Informed family planning decisions
- Improved Quality of Life: Proper management enables normal growth and development
- Prevention of Emergencies: Avoids life-threatening adrenal insufficiency episodes
Understanding Your Test Results
Interpretation Guidance
Your test results will provide detailed measurements of all 10 steroid hormones. Elevated levels of specific precursors typically indicate enzyme blockages in the steroid synthesis pathway:
- Elevated 17-Hydroxyprogesterone: Suggests 21-hydroxylase deficiency (most common CAH form)
- Increased 11-Deoxycortisol: Indicates 11-beta-hydroxylase deficiency
- Abnormal Cortisol Levels: May suggest impaired adrenal function
- Androgen Excess: Often seen in non-classical CAH forms
Important: Always discuss your results with your healthcare provider for proper interpretation and treatment planning. Results should be considered in the context of clinical symptoms and other diagnostic findings.
Test Information and Pricing
| Test Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Test Name | Steroid Panel for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) Test |
| Regular Price | $226 USD |
| Discount Price | $138 USD |
| Sample Type | 2 mL (1 mL min.) serum from Red Top tube |
| Turnaround Time | Sample Mon/Thu by 9 am; Report Wed/Sat |
| Methodology | LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry) |
| Specialty | Endocrinology, Pediatrics, Genetics |
Important Pre-Test Instructions
Due to diurnal variation in steroid hormone levels, samples must be collected between 8-10 am OR 4-6 pm. Please specify the exact time and date of collection on both the specimen container and test request form. Ship samples refrigerated or frozen, and avoid using SST gel barrier tubes.
Nationwide Accessibility
We have diagnostic branches conveniently located across all major cities throughout the United States, ensuring accessible testing services for patients nationwide. Our state-of-the-art facilities maintain the highest standards of accuracy and reliability in genetic and endocrine testing.
Take Control of Your Health Today
Early detection of congenital adrenal hyperplasia can significantly improve treatment outcomes and quality of life. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen – schedule your comprehensive steroid panel test now and gain valuable insights into your adrenal health.
Ready to book your test? Call or WhatsApp us today at +1(267) 388-9828 to schedule your appointment or get more information about our comprehensive CAH screening services.
Our experienced healthcare professionals are available to answer your questions and guide you through the testing process. Take the first step toward accurate diagnosis and effective management of adrenal disorders with our advanced steroid panel testing.
