Order the 17-hydroxy corticosteroids urine test from Walk-In Lab to measure levels of 17-OHCS, an inactive product formed when the liver and other body tissues break down the steroid hormone, cortisol. 17-OHCS is an indirect measurement of proper pituitary, or adrenal gland function.
17-hydroxy corticosteroid (17-OHCS) is a product formed when the liver and other body tissues break down the steroid hormone, cortisol.
This test can help determine if the body is producing too much of the hormone, cortisol. The test may be used to diagnose Cushing syndrome. This is a disorder that occurs when the body has a high level of cortisol.
A higher than normal level of 17-OHCS may indicate:
- A type of Cushing syndrome caused by a tumor in the adrenal gland that produces cortisol
- Depression
- Hydrocortisone therapy
- Malnutrition
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Severe high blood pressure
- Severe physical or emotional stress
- Tumor in the pituitary gland or elsewhere in the body that releases a hormone called adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
A lower than normal level of 17-OHCS may indicate:
- Adrenal glands are not producing enough of their hormones
- Pituitary gland is not producing enough of its hormones
- Hereditary enzyme deficiency
- Previous surgery to remove the adrenal gland
Sample Report
Test Code(s):
806730, 15202
Also Known As:
17-OH corticosteroids; 17-OHCS; 17 Hydroxy Corticosteroids Urine Test, 24-Hour
Preparation:
You must take your lab order to the lab to obtain a proper specimen container before collection. No fasting required. Urinate at 8am and discard the specimen. Then collect all urine in 24-hour period, ending with final collection at 8am the next morning. Refrigerate the collected urine between all voidings or keep it in a cool place. Screw the lid on securely. Transport the specimen promptly to the laboratory. Container must be labeled with full name, date and time collection started, and date and time collection finished.
Test Results:
7-8 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
