17 OH PROGESTERONE Detail

The 17-OH Progesterone (17-Hydroxyprogesterone) test measures the level of a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and, to a lesser extent, by the ovaries and testes. It is a precursor in the production of cortisol and androgens.

This test is mainly used to screen for and diagnose a genetic disorder called Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), particularly in newborns. CAH affects the adrenal glands' ability to produce certain hormones, leading to hormone imbalance. In adults, the test helps investigate symptoms like excessive hair growth, irregular periods, infertility, or early puberty, often associated with adrenal or ovarian dysfunction.