17-Hydroxypregnenolone Test in UAE

17-Hydroxypregnenolone test in Dubai and across the UAE to evaluate adrenal hormone pathways. This specialized test helps diagnose rare forms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), particularly 3-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency, and assess complex hormonal imbalances. Results available within 30 days.

Overview

The 17-Hydroxypregnenolone test measures a key steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and gonads. It is an early precursor in the synthesis of cortisol, androgens, and estrogens. Elevated levels are a hallmark of 3-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3-beta-HSD) deficiency — a rare form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. This test is used when evaluating ambiguous genitalia, adrenal insufficiency, or atypical hormone profiles. Results are typically available within 30 business days due to specialized laboratory processing.

Why You Need This Test

• Diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 3-beta-HSD deficiency.
• Evaluate newborns with ambiguous genitalia or atypical sexual development.
• Investigate unexplained adrenal insufficiency or salt-wasting episodes in infants.
• Differentiate between types of CAH when 17-OHP, DHEA-S, or androstenedione results are inconclusive.
• Assess patients with suspected steroid biosynthesis disorders.
• Monitor treatment in known cases of rare CAH variants.
• Available with home sample collection across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and all Emirates.

Symptoms & Risk Factors

Common Symptoms (in Infants)

• Atypical genital development in genetic males or females (e.g., under-masculinized males or virilized females).
• Poor feeding, vomiting, dehydration — signs of adrenal crisis.
• Low sodium, high potassium (electrolyte imbalance).
• Low blood pressure or lethargy.

Common Symptoms (in Children & Adults)

• Delayed or incomplete puberty.
• Irregular periods or infertility.
• Chronic fatigue or poor stress tolerance.
• Hirsutism or hormonal acne in women.

Risk Factors

• Family history of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH).
• Consanguineous parents (increased genetic risk).
• Abnormal newborn screening results (elevated 17-OHP or DHEA-S).
• Known adrenal or gonadal disorder.
• Unexplained hormonal imbalances or adrenal insufficiency.

How the Test Works

17-Hydroxypregnenolone is an early precursor in steroid hormone synthesis. In 3-beta-HSD deficiency, it accumulates because it cannot be converted into downstream hormones like progesterone or testosterone.

• Step 1 — Appointment: visit a certified lab or book home blood collection (available in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other Emirates).
• Step 2 — Blood draw: a trained technician collects 2 mL of serum (plain tube) via venipuncture (takes under 5 minutes).
• Step 3 — Lab analysis: performed using advanced immunoassay or mass spectrometry at a reference laboratory.
• Step 4 — Results: delivered securely within 30 business days.

This test is essential for diagnosing rare but serious adrenal enzyme disorders requiring lifelong management.

Specimen (Sample Type)

• Required sample: Serum, Plain tube
• Volume: 2 mL
• Collection method: standard venipuncture
• Container: red-top or gel separator (SST) tube
• Transport: refrigerated (2–8°C) or frozen (-20°C)
• Note: hemolysed or improperly stored samples may be rejected

Risks & Safety

• Mild pain or bruising at the needle site (temporary).
• Dizziness (rare, especially in children or anxious patients).
• Very low infection risk with sterile technique.
• No special risks associated with the test itself.

Result Interpretation

Normal Range

• Adults: 0.1–1.0 ng/mL (lab-dependent)
• Children: levels vary significantly by age and pubertal stage
• Pregnancy: naturally elevated

Elevated Levels

• May indicate:
  • 3-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3-beta-HSD) deficiency (a rare form of CAH)
  • Adrenal hyperplasia or tumor
  • ACTH overstimulation or stress response
• Often seen with low progesterone and androstenedione — key diagnostic clue.

Low Levels

• May suggest:
  • Impaired adrenal steroidogenesis
  • Suppression by exogenous steroids (e.g., dexamethasone)
  • Adrenal insufficiency

Consequences if Untreated

• In newborns: life-threatening adrenal crisis, electrolyte imbalance, or misdiagnosis of sex.
• Genital abnormalities: can lead to psychosocial and medical challenges.
• Delayed puberty or infertility in later life.
• Chronic fatigue and poor stress response due to cortisol deficiency.

Factors Affecting Test Results

• Time of day: steroid hormones follow a diurnal rhythm (best drawn in morning).
• Medications: corticosteroids, ketoconazole, spironolactone can alter levels.
• Pregnancy: significantly increases 17-hydroxypregnenolone.
• Stress or illness: can temporarily elevate hormone levels.
• Sample quality: hemolysed or delayed samples may be rejected.

FAQs

Limitations

• This is a specialized, referral-only test — not used for routine screening.
• Must be interpreted alongside 17-OHP, DHEA-S, androstenedione, cortisol, and electrolytes.
• May require ACTH stimulation testing for full evaluation.
• Not widely available — requires shipment to international or central reference labs.
• Hemolysed or improperly stored samples may be rejected.

Book Your 17-Hydroxypregnenolone Test Today

Don’t overlook rare hormonal causes — get precise answers for complex adrenal conditions.

• Home Sample Collection Available (Across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah)
• Fast, Accurate, Confidential Results in 30 Days
• Price: AED 460
• ✅ Certified Labs | Reference Laboratory Testing
• 👩‍⚕️ Licensed Technicians
• 🔒 Secure Reporting