Measurement of 17-hydroxycorticosteroids in urine is used to test adrenal cortex function.
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17-hydroxycorticosteroids (17-OHCS) are degradation products of cortisone and hydrocortisone and which can be used as a marker of the production of these molecules and the function of the adrenal cortex. 17-hydroxycorticosteroids are carbon compounds having a dihydroxyacetone group in the seventeenth carbon molecule. Cortisone and hydroxycortisone regulate, but are not limited to, carbohydrate and protein metabolism and are involved in the regulation of ACTH secretion.
What are the clinical indications for the measurement of 17-Hydroxycorticosteroids?
- Dehydration
- Weight loss
- Change in mental state
- Motion sickness
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Savory foods cravings
- Facial edema (moon face)
- Kyphosis (buffalo hump)
- Abnormal hair growth
What do the results of the 17-Ηydroxycorticosteroids test in urine mean?
An elevated level of 17-hydroxycorticosteroids in the urine may indicate:
- Cushing's syndrome
- Adrenal cancer
- Hyperpituitarism
- Eclampsia
- Hyperthyroidism
- Taking certain medications and nutritional supplements
A reduced level of 17-hydroxycorticosteroids in urine may indicate:
- Addison's disease
- Androgenetic syndrome
- Hypothyroidism
- Hypopituitarism
- Taking certain medications and nutritional supplements
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
