17-Hydroxypregnenolone Test: Comprehensive Endocrine Assessment
Understanding the 17-Hydroxypregnenolone Test
The 17-Hydroxypregnenolone Test represents a sophisticated diagnostic tool in modern endocrinology, specifically designed to evaluate adrenal gland function and steroid hormone synthesis pathways. This specialized blood test measures the concentration of 17-hydroxypregnenolone, a crucial intermediate steroid hormone in the cortisol production cascade. As a precursor molecule in the adrenal steroidogenesis pathway, 17-hydroxypregnenolone serves as an essential biomarker for identifying disruptions in hormonal balance and detecting congenital adrenal disorders.
This test holds particular significance in pediatric and adult endocrinology, providing clinicians with valuable insights into the complex interplay of adrenal hormones. The accurate measurement of 17-hydroxypregnenolone levels enables healthcare providers to pinpoint specific enzymatic deficiencies and guide appropriate therapeutic interventions for optimal patient outcomes.
What the Test Measures and Detects
The 17-Hydroxypregnenolone Test specifically quantifies the concentration of 17-hydroxypregnenolone in serum samples, offering critical information about:
- Adrenal Steroidogenesis Pathway Function: Evaluates the efficiency of cortisol and aldosterone production pathways
- 21-Hydroxylase Enzyme Activity: Detects deficiencies in this crucial enzyme responsible for converting 17-hydroxypregnenolone to 17-hydroxyprogesterone
- Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH): Identifies classic and non-classic forms of this inherited disorder
- Adrenal Insufficiency Markers: Assesses potential adrenal cortex dysfunction
- Steroid Hormone Imbalances: Reveals disruptions in the complex hormonal cascade
Using advanced Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) methodology, this test provides exceptional analytical specificity and sensitivity, ensuring reliable results for clinical decision-making.
Who Should Consider This Test
Several clinical scenarios warrant consideration of the 17-Hydroxypregnenolone Test:
Pediatric Indications
- Newborns with ambiguous genitalia or atypical genital development
- Infants presenting with salt-wasting crises or adrenal insufficiency symptoms
- Children experiencing precocious puberty or accelerated growth
- Young patients with family history of congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Adult Clinical Presentations
- Women experiencing hirsutism, menstrual irregularities, or infertility
- Individuals with symptoms of adrenal insufficiency (fatigue, weakness, weight loss)
- Patients with hyperpigmentation or other signs of elevated ACTH
- Adults with suspected non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia
- Individuals undergoing evaluation for adrenal masses or tumors
Comprehensive Benefits of Testing
Undergoing the 17-Hydroxypregnenolone Test offers numerous advantages for patients and healthcare providers:
- Early Disease Detection: Identifies congenital adrenal hyperplasia before severe complications develop
- Accurate Diagnosis: Provides definitive laboratory evidence for hormonal disorders
- Personalized Treatment Planning: Enables targeted therapeutic interventions based on specific enzymatic deficiencies
- Reproductive Health Assessment: Evaluates potential impacts on fertility and menstrual function
- Long-term Health Monitoring: Establishes baseline measurements for ongoing endocrine management
- Family Planning Guidance: Provides genetic counseling information for inherited conditions
Understanding Your Test Results
Interpreting 17-Hydroxypregnenolone levels requires careful consideration of clinical context and correlation with other hormonal parameters:
Normal Results
Normal 17-hydroxypregnenolone levels typically indicate properly functioning adrenal steroidogenesis pathways. However, clinical correlation with symptoms and other hormone levels remains essential for comprehensive assessment.
Elevated Levels
Significantly elevated 17-hydroxypregnenolone concentrations often suggest:
- 21-hydroxylase deficiency (classic or non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia)
- Disruption in cortisol synthesis pathway
- Compensatory increases in ACTH stimulation
- Potential adrenal tumors or hyperplasia
Clinical Interpretation
Your healthcare provider will interpret results in the context of:
- Clinical symptoms and physical examination findings
- Other adrenal hormone levels (cortisol, ACTH, aldosterone)
- Electrolyte balance and renal function
- Genetic testing results when indicated
- Response to ACTH stimulation testing if performed
Test Pricing and Availability
| Price Type | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Discount Price | $376 |
| Regular Price | $500 |
Test Specifications
- Turnaround Time: 2-3 weeks
- Sample Type: 2 mL (1 mL minimum) serum from Red Top tube (No Additive)
- Methodology: LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry)
- Specialty: Endocrinology
- Department: OS
Important Note: Do not use SST gel barrier tubes. Ship samples refrigerated or frozen. A duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is mandatory for processing.
Nationwide Testing Availability
We maintain comprehensive testing facilities across the United States, with convenient locations in all major metropolitan areas including:
- New York City and surrounding tri-state area
- Los Angeles and Southern California region
- Chicago and Midwest locations
- Houston, Dallas, and Texas facilities
- Phoenix, Arizona testing centers
- Miami, Florida diagnostic locations
- And numerous additional sites nationwide
Our network of certified laboratories ensures consistent quality and reliable results regardless of testing location.
Take Control of Your Endocrine Health Today
Don’t let uncertainty about your adrenal function or hormonal balance affect your quality of life. The 17-Hydroxypregnenolone Test provides the clarity and definitive answers you need for proper diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
Ready to schedule your test? Our dedicated healthcare team is available to assist you with appointment scheduling, answer your questions, and guide you through the testing process.
Call or WhatsApp us today at +1(267) 388-9828 to book your 17-Hydroxypregnenolone Test and take the first step toward comprehensive endocrine health assessment.
With our discounted price of $376 USD (regularly $500 USD), advanced LC-MS/MS methodology, and nationwide availability, there’s never been a better time to prioritize your hormonal health and obtain the accurate diagnostic information you deserve.
