17 Hydroxyprogesterone Neonatal

17-hydroxyprogesterone - Neonatal is a test performed in neonates (under 28 days of age) to measure the amount of 17-hydroxyprogesterone in the blood.

What is 17-hydroxyprogesterone?

17-hydroxyprogesterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. This hormone is converted to a stress hormone called cortisol by the help of enzymes. Cortisol is released in larger amounts in the body during times of physical or emotional stress. In some newborns, the adequate amount of cortisol is not produced due to lack of an enzyme 21-hydroxylase. This results in high levels of 17-hydroxyprogesterone in their blood. The low levels of cortisol lead to a genetically inherited disorder called congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). This condition may increase the production of male sex hormones called androgens. There are two major types of congenital adrenal hyperplasia; Classic CAH and Nonclassic CAH. Classic CAH is more common in neonates and infants.

Why this test is performed?

This test may be performed as part of routine newborn screening to detect a genetic condition called congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Your doctor may ask to perform this test if he suspects CAH associated signs like if the neonate’s sex is not obvious. Few more additional tests may also be performed along with this test to confirm this condition. This test may also be recommended by your doctor for the infants receiving treatment for congenital adrenal hyperplasia in order to monitor the treatment response.

If the test results fall in the normal reference range generally no medical intervention is necessary.

If the test results show high levels of 17-hydroxyprogesterone it may indicate the neonate is more likely to have the condition called congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Few more additional tests may also be performed along with this test to confirm this condition. CAH may sometimes cause a shock of dehydration in neonates. Increased levels of 17-hydroxyprogesterone in neonates receiving treatment for congenital adrenal hyperplasia may indicate a poor response to the treatment.

Decreased or low levels of 17-hydroxyprogesterone in neonates receiving treatment for congenital adrenal hyperplasia may indicate a proper response to the treatment.

If there is higher or lower than normal levels of 17-hydroxyprogesterone consult your doctor for further instructions. Based on the test results, your doctor may advise appropriate medical treatments or further diagnostic tests.