17-ОН Progesterone in blood (chromatography)
17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OH progesterone) is a biologically active hormone produced by the adrenal cortex and is a derivative of the related substance progesterone. During biosynthesis, it acts as a low-activity precursor for the creation of endogenous steroids: glucocorticoid hormones (including cortisol), mineralocorticoids (like aldosterone) and sex hormones - androgens as well as estrogens. This indicator serves as the most important diagnostic marker for congenital adrenal disorders and disorders of estrogenic hormone synthesis in the female reproductive organs.
The formation of cortisol requires the participation of specific enzyme complexes. When the activity of these enzymes is defective or impaired, improper conversion occurs, leading to an abnormal accumulation of both cortisol itself and its precursors in the body. In particular, the level of 17-hydroxyprogesterone increases significantly in the blood. Excessive amounts of this hormone provoke increased production of androgens by the adrenal glands.
Elevated levels are observed in:
- congenital hyperplasia of the adrenal cortex;
- hirsutism;
- infertility and menstrual disorders;
- polycystic ovary syndrome;
- taking certain medications (corticosteroids and oral contraceptives.
A decrease in the level is observed when:
- pseudohermaphroditism in men;
- Addison's disease.