17 Alpha Hydroxy Progesterone 19

This test measures the amount of 17-hydroxyprogesterone hormone produced by the adrenal glands situated on the top of kidneys. It acts as a substrate for the production of cortisol hormone responsible for maintaining blood sugar levels, metabolism, reduce inflammation and aid in memory formulation. A cortisol deficiency can occur due to lack of appropriate enzymes leading to a accumulation of 17- hydroxyprogesterone in the blood.
High levels of 17-hydroxyprogesterone can indicate a condition called congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Symptoms of CAH disorder include increased body hair, deeper voice, irregular periods, ambiguous genitals and infertility. Sometimes an extremely high 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels could also indicate the presence of an adrenal tumor.