17-ALPHA HYDROXYPROGESTERONE (NEONATAL SCREENING) Test in UAE

17-Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone (Neonatal Screening) test in Dubai and across the UAE to detect congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) in newborns. This life-saving screening helps identify babies at risk of hormonal imbalances, adrenal crisis, or genital abnormalities. Results available within 5–10 days.

Overview

The 17-Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) Neonatal Screening test is a critical part of newborn screening programs in the UAE. It measures 17-OHP levels in a dried blood spot to detect 21-hydroxylase deficiency — the most common form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Early detection allows immediate treatment to prevent life-threatening adrenal crises, electrolyte imbalances, and developmental issues. Results are typically available within 5–10 days.

Why You Need This Test

• Early detection of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) before symptoms appear.
• Prevent adrenal crisis (vomiting, dehydration, shock) in newborns with salt-wasting CAH.
• Identify babies at risk of ambiguous genitalia (especially in genetic females).
• Mandatory screening in many UAE hospitals between day 2 and day 5 of life.
• Support early intervention with hormone replacement and monitoring.
• Part of a comprehensive newborn metabolic screening panel.
• Available for home follow-up testing if initial screening was delayed.

Symptoms & Risk Factors

Common Signs (if untreated)

• Poor feeding, vomiting, or weight loss in the first week of life.
• Dehydration, low sodium, high potassium — signs of salt-wasting crisis.
• Darkened skin (hyperpigmentation) due to high ACTH.
• Genital abnormalities in genetic females (enlarged clitoris, fused labia).
• Low blood sugar or lethargy.

Risk Factors

• Family history of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH).
• Consanguineous parents (increased genetic risk).
• Previous child diagnosed with CAH in the family.
• Not screened at birth — late or missed newborn screening.
• Preterm infants: may have transiently elevated 17-OHP (requires follow-up).

How the Test Works

The test measures 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) — a hormone that builds up when the adrenal gland can't make cortisol due to enzyme deficiency.

• Step 1 — Timing: ideally performed between the 2nd and 5th day of life (after full feeding).
• Step 2 — Sample collection: a small blood sample is taken via heel prick and blotted onto a filter paper card (dried blood spot).
• Step 3 — Documentation: a complete Clinical History form must accompany the sample, including birth date, birth time, feeding status, and gestational age.
• Step 4 — Lab analysis: specialized immunoassay measures 17-OHP levels.
• Step 5 — Results: delivered securely within 5–10 business days.

This non-invasive test is a cornerstone of preventive pediatric care in the UAE.

Specimen (Sample Type)

• Required sample: Dried Blood Spot (DBS) from heel prick
• Collection window: ideally between Day 2 and Day 5 of life
• Form required: completed Clinical History form (birth date, birth time, feeding, gestational age)
• Handling: avoid touching or smearing the blood spots — use clean hands and proper technique
• Drying: air-dry horizontally for a minimum of 3 hours
• Transport: ship to the lab as soon as dry, and no later than 24 hours after collection
• Note: improperly handled or delayed specimens may be rejected

Risks & Safety

• Minimal discomfort: brief pinch during heel prick.
• Small bruise or redness at the site — resolves quickly.
• No infection risk when sterile lancets are used.
• No long-term risks — this is a standard, safe screening procedure.

Result Interpretation

Normal Range

• Term infants: usually < 200 ng/dL (lab-dependent cutoff)
• Levels vary by age, birth weight, and time of collection

Elevated Levels

• May indicate:
  • Classic 21-hydroxylase deficiency (CAH)
  • Non-classic CAH (milder form)
  • Preterm birth (transient elevation)
  • Stress or illness in newborn period
• Abnormal screen requires urgent follow-up with serum 17-OHP, cortisol, and electrolytes.

False Positives

• More common in preterm, low birth weight, or sick infants.
• Requires repeat testing to confirm.

Consequences if Untreated

• Adrenal crisis: vomiting, dehydration, shock, death within days.
• Electrolyte imbalance: low sodium, high potassium, cardiac arrhythmias.
• Permanent genital abnormalities in undiagnosed genetic females.
• Delayed diagnosis increases risk of hospitalization and long-term complications.

Factors Affecting Test Results

• Timing: testing too early (<24h) or too late (>5 days) reduces accuracy.
• Birth weight: preterm infants often have higher 17-OHP.
• Feeding status: must be fed before testing — affects hormone levels.
• Stress or illness: can elevate 17-OHP temporarily.
• Sample handling: touching, smearing, or delayed transport affects reliability.

FAQs

Limitations

• Not 100% diagnostic — elevated results require confirmatory serum testing.
• May miss non-classic or late-onset CAH (use serum test for older children).
• Higher false positive rate in preterm or ill newborns.
• Strict collection and transport rules — improper handling leads to sample rejection.
• Must be collected within the 2nd–5th day window for optimal accuracy.

Book Your 17-Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone (Neonatal Screening) Test Today

Protect your baby’s health from day one — early detection saves lives.

• Home Neonatal Screening Available (Across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah)
• Fast, Accurate, Confidential Results in 5–10 Days
• Price: AED 150
• ✅ Certified Labs | Newborn Screening Accredited
• 👶 Trained Pediatric Nurses for Home Collection
• 🔒 Secure Reporting & Doctor Support