17-Hydroxycortiosteroids Urine Test

Latest Edit: Hector 2014-03-21 (EDT)

See Also	Lab Tests

17-Hydroxycorticosteroids urine test is used to assess adrenocortical function by measuring the cortisol metabolites (17-OCHS) in a 24-hour urine collection.

Discussion

• Elevated levels of 17-hydroxycortiosteroids occur with adrenal hyperfunction (Cushing syndrome), whether the condition is caused by a pituitary or adrenal tumor, bilateral adrenal hyperplasia, or ectopic tumors producing adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)

Patient Preparation

• No fasting required.
• 24-hour urine sample, discard the first morning urine sample

• Factors which can cause increased levels

• emotional and physical stress
• infections
• Licorice
• Medications such as acetazolamide, chloral hydrate, chlorpormazine, colchincine, erythromycin, meprbamate, paraldehyde, quinidine, quinine, and spironolactone.

• Factors which can cause decreased levels

• Medications such as estrogen, oral contraceptives, phenothiazides, and reserpine.

Clinical Implications

High levels indicate:

• Cushing disease / syndrome
• Ectopic ACTH-producing tumor
• Stress
• Hyperthyroidism
• Obesity

Low levels indicate:

• Adrenal hyperplasia
• Addison's Disease
• Hypopituitarism
• Hypothyroidism

Associated Tests

• Cortisol