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

17-Hydroxy Pregnenolone (17-OH Pregnenolone) test in Dubai and across the UAE to evaluate adrenal hormone pathways. This specialized test helps diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), particularly 3-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency, and differentiate rare forms of hormonal disorders. Results available within 15–20 days.

Overview

The 17-Hydroxy Pregnenolone (17-OH Pregnenolone) test measures a key steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and gonads. It is an early precursor in the cortisol and sex hormone synthesis pathway. This test is used when evaluating suspected adrenal enzyme deficiencies, especially in newborns with atypical genitalia or hormonal imbalances. It is often paired with 17-OHP, DHEA-S, and androstenedione for a complete steroid profile. Results are typically available within 15–20 business days.

Why You Need This Test

• Diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 3-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency.
• Evaluate newborns with ambiguous genitalia or atypical sexual development.
• Differentiate between types of CAH when 17-OHP and DHEA-S results are inconclusive.
• Investigate unexplained hormonal imbalances in children or adults.
• Assess adrenal function in 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.
• Poor weight gain or failure to thrive.
• Vomiting, dehydration, or low blood pressure — signs of adrenal insufficiency.
• Low sodium, high potassium (salt-wasting crisis).

Common Symptoms (in Children & Adults)

• Delayed puberty or incomplete sexual development.
• Irregular periods or infertility.
• Excessive fatigue or low stress tolerance.
• Hormonal acne or hirsutism in women.

Risk Factors

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

How the Test Works

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

• 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 (minimum 0.5 mL) from 1 SST (gold/yellow top) tube.
• Step 3 — Lab analysis: performed using sensitive immunoassay or mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).
• Step 4 — Results: delivered securely within 15–20 business days.

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

Specimen (Sample Type)

• Required sample: 2 mL (minimum 0.5 mL) Serum from 1 SST (Gold/Yellow top)
• Collection method: standard venipuncture
• Stability: hemolysed specimens are not acceptable
• Transport: ship 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: 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 stimulation 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: adrenal crisis, electrolyte imbalance, life-threatening complications.
• Genital abnormalities: can lead to misdiagnosis or psychosocial challenges.
• Delayed puberty or infertility in later life.
• Chronic fatigue and poor stress response due to cortisol deficiency.

Factors Affecting Test Results

• Medications: corticosteroids, spironolactone, ketoconazole can suppress or alter levels.
• Time of day: steroid hormones follow a diurnal rhythm (best drawn in morning).
• Pregnancy: significantly increases 17-OH Pregnenolone.
• Stress or illness: can temporarily elevate levels.
• Sample quality: hemolysed or improperly stored samples will 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, and cortisol.
• May require ACTH stimulation testing for full evaluation.
• Hemolysed specimens will be rejected — proper collection and rapid shipping are critical.
• Not widely available — requires referral to endocrine-specialized labs.

Book Your 17-Hydroxy Pregnenolone 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 15–20 Days
• Price: AED 850
• ✅ Certified Labs | Endocrinology-Grade Testing
• 👩‍⚕️ Licensed Technicians
• 🔒 Secure Reporting