Reference Range Reference ranges of serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHPG) are as follows [1, 2, 3] : Cord blood: 1000-3000 ng/dL. Newborns: < 630 ng/dL (> 630 ng/dL may be seen in preterm infants, but > 1000 ng/dL is uncommon) Prepubertal males: < 110 ng/dL.

How do you read 17 hydroxyprogesterone results?

If results show high levels of 17-OHP, it’s likely you or your child has CAH. Usually, very high levels means a more severe form of the condition, while moderately high levels usually means a milder form. If you or your child is being treated for CAH, lower levels of 17-OHP may mean the treatment is working.

What does it mean when your 17 hydroxyprogesterone is low?

Low values of 17-OHP are found in adrenal hypofunction, whether of adrenal or hypothalamic/pituitary origin. The most frequent cause of a low 17-OHP concentration is suppression of the pituitary–adrenal axis by synthetic glucocorticoids given therapeutically.

What is congenital adrenal?

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) refers to a group of genetic disorders that affect the adrenal glands, a pair of walnut-sized organs above the kidneys. The adrenal glands produce important hormones, including: Cortisol, which regulates the body’s response to illness or stress.

What causes low hydroxyprogesterone?

How is non classical adrenal hyperplasia treated?

Non-classical adrenal hyperplasia can be treated effectively using drugs called corticosteroids. The treatment slows growth in children and delays puberty so that it can start on time. In adult women, this treatment can be used to regulate the menstrual cycle, prevent hairiness and acne, as well as improving fertility.

Can CAH be cured?

In people who have CAH , a genetic problem results in a lack of one of the enzymes needed to make these hormones. Although there is no cure, with proper treatment, most people who have congenital adrenal hyperplasia can lead normal lives.

What is Virilization?

Virilization is a condition in which a female develops characteristics associated with male hormones (androgens), or when a newborn has characteristics of male hormone exposure at birth.

Is CAH life threatening?

People who have classic CAH are at risk of adrenal crisis because they have very low levels of cortisol in the blood. This can cause diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, low blood sugar levels and shock. Adrenal crisis is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.