17-hydroxycorticosteroids
17-hydroxycorticosteroids (17-OHCS) is an inactive product that forms when the liver and other body tissues break down the steroid hormone cortisol. This article discusses the laboratory test to measure the amount of 17-OHCS in urine.
How the test is performed
A sample of urine for 24 hours.
On day 1, urinate into the toilet upon arising in the morning.
Collect all urine in a special container for the next 24 hours.
On day 2, urinate into the container in the morning on rising.
Cap the container and store in the refrigerator or a cool place during the collection period.
Label the container with the name, date, time of completion, and return as instructed.
For an infant, thoroughly wash the area around the urethra, opening a urine collection bag (a plastic bag with an adhesive on one end) and place it on the baby. In children, place the entire penis in the bag and attach the adhesive to the skin in females, place the bag over the labia. Diaper as usual over the secured bag.
They may have to repeat the procedure, as lively infants can displace the bag, causing the urine to be absorbed by the diaper. Check the infant is frequently and the bag after the infant has urinated into it. The urine is drained from the bag into the container provided by your doctor.
Deliver the container in the laboratory or doctor as soon as possible.
Prepare for the Test
If necessary, your doctor will instruct you to discontinue drugs that may interfere with the test.
Ampicillin and glucocorticoids can increase 17-OHCS measurements.
Estrogens pills (pills) and dexamethasone can decrease 17-OHCS measurements.
If you are collecting the urine sample of a baby, you may need a couple of extra collection bags.
What you feel during the examination
The test involves only normal urination and there is no discomfort.
Why the test is performed
This test can help determine if your body is producing too much hormone cortisol.
Normal Values
Men: 4 to 14 milligrams per 24 hours
Women: 2 to 12 milligrams per 24 hours
The normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. The person should talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
Significance of abnormal results
The 17-OHCS levels above normal may indicate:
Cushing syndrome caused by adrenal or pituitary tumor
Ectopic ACTH-producing tumor
Severe physical or emotional stress
Levels above normal can also be filed with:
Hydrocortisone therapy
Obesity
Pregnancy
Severe Hypertension
The 17-OHCS levels below normal may indicate:
Adrenal hemorrhage
Adrenal insufficiency
Adrenal infarction
Hereditary enzyme deficiency
Hypopituitarism
Surgical removal of adrenal gland
Risks
There are no risks.
Alternative Names
17-OHCS, 17-OH corticosteroids
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