17-OH progesterone / 17-Hydroxy progesterone Test in UAE

17-OH Progesterone (17-Hydroxy Progesterone) test in Dubai and across the UAE to evaluate adrenal and reproductive hormone function. This essential test helps diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), investigate infertility, irregular periods, or hirsutism in women, and monitor hormone therapy. Results available within 2–4 days.

Overview

The 17-Hydroxy Progesterone (17-OHP) test measures a key steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and ovaries. It is a precursor to cortisol and sex hormones. Elevated levels may indicate 21-hydroxylase deficiency — the most common form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). This test is also used to evaluate PCOS, precocious puberty, ambiguous genitalia, and adrenal tumors. Results are typically available within 2–4 business days.

Why You Need This Test

• Diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) in newborns, children, or adults.
• Evaluate infants with ambiguous genitalia or atypical development.
• Investigate irregular periods, infertility, or hirsutism in women.
• Differentiate between PCOS and adrenal hyperplasia.
• Monitor patients on steroid replacement therapy for CAH.
• Assess children with precocious puberty or early signs of virilization.
• Available with home sample collection across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and all Emirates.

Symptoms & Risk Factors

Common Symptoms (in Infants)

• Atypical genital appearance in genetic females (virilization).
• Poor feeding, vomiting, dehydration — signs of salt-wasting CAH.
• Low weight gain or failure to thrive.

Common Symptoms (in Children & Adults)

• Early puberty (before age 8 in girls, 9 in boys).
• Excessive body hair (hirsutism), acne, or male-pattern baldness.
• Irregular or absent menstrual cycles.
• Infertility or difficulty conceiving.
• Rapid growth in childhood followed by short adult stature.

Risk Factors

• Family history of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH).
• Consanguineous parents (increased genetic risk).
• Newborn screening flags for elevated 17-OHP.
• Diagnosis of PCOS with atypical features.
• Adrenal mass or hormonal imbalance on imaging or labs.

How the Test Works

17-OHP is a precursor in the cortisol production pathway. When the enzyme 21-hydroxylase is deficient, 17-OHP builds up in the blood — a hallmark of CAH.

• 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 your blood sample using a small needle.
• Step 3 — Lab analysis: performed using immunoassay for high accuracy.
• Step 4 — Results: delivered securely within 2–4 business days.

This test is critical for early diagnosis and management of hormonal disorders.

Sample Type

• We take: 2 mL (minimum 0.5 mL) of blood
• Tube type: 1 SST (Gold/Yellow top or serum separator tube)
• How it’s collected: standard venipuncture (from the arm)
• Important: hemolysed (broken red blood cells) samples are not acceptable
• Transport: must be shipped refrigerated (2–8°C) or frozen (-20°C or lower)
• Note: sample must be processed and shipped promptly to prevent degradation

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: 20–100 ng/dL (lab-dependent)
• Children: varies by age and sex
• Follicular phase (women): 20–140 ng/dL
• Luteal phase: up to 500 ng/dL

Elevated Levels

• Indicates:
  • 21-hydroxylase deficiency (most common CAH)
  • Adrenal hyperplasia or tumor
  • Non-classic CAH (late-onset form)
  • Stress or ACTH stimulation

Low Levels

• May suggest:
  • Adrenal insufficiency
  • Impaired steroidogenesis
  • Suppressive therapy (e.g., dexamethasone)

Consequences if Untreated

• In newborns: life-threatening adrenal crisis (salt-wasting), genital abnormalities.
• In children: stunted growth, early puberty, infertility.
• In women: chronic anovulation, PCOS-like symptoms, infertility.
• Psychosocial impact: especially in cases of hirsutism or ambiguous genitalia.

Factors Affecting Test Results

• Time of day: levels peak in the morning — best drawn before 10 AM.
• Menstrual cycle: fluctuates — luteal phase levels are naturally higher.
• Medications: corticosteroids, oral contraceptives, spironolactone.
• Pregnancy: significantly increases 17-OHP.
• Stress or illness: can temporarily elevate levels.

FAQs

Limitations

• Levels vary by age, sex, and menstrual cycle — must be interpreted in context.
• May require ACTH stimulation test for definitive diagnosis of non-classic CAH.
• Not a standalone test for PCOS — must be combined with clinical and hormonal evaluation.
• Hemolysed specimens will be rejected — proper handling is essential.
• Sample must be shipped refrigerated or frozen to prevent degradation.

Book Your 17-OH Progesterone / 17-Hydroxy Progesterone Test Today

Don’t ignore hormonal signs — get accurate answers for adrenal and reproductive health.

• Home Sample Collection Available (Across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah)
• Fast, Accurate, Confidential Results in 2–4 Days
• Price: AED 450
• ✅ Certified Labs
• 👩‍⚕️ Licensed Technicians
• 🔒 Secure Reporting