11-deoxycortisol in blood (chromatography)

11-deoxycortisol (also known as 11-deoxycortisol, cortodoxone, cortexolone or 17-α,21-dihydroxyprogesterone, 17α-propionate) is a direct precursor of cortisol in the process of steroidogenesis. It is produced by the adrenal glands in small amounts and converted into cortisol by the action of the enzyme 11-beta-hydroxylase (CYP11B1). With a deficiency of 11-beta-hydroxylase, for example, with congenital adrenal hyperplasia, 11-deoxycortisol can accumulate in the body.

Elevated levels are observed in:

• congenital hyperplasia of the adrenal cortex caused by deficiency of the enzyme 11 β-hydroxylase; 
• hypothalamic tumor; 
• pituitary microadenoma; 
• pituitary apoplexy; 
• a state of high psychoemotional and/or physical stress. 

A decrease in the level is observed when:

• Addison's disease; 
• adrenogenital syndrome; 
• pituitary hypofunction; 
• nonspecific injectable polyarthritis; 
• bronchial asthma.