17 Ketosteroids, Urine

Reasons for Undergoing the 17-Ketosteroids Test

Your doctor may recommend a 17-ketosteroids test for several reasons, including:

• Evaluating adrenal gland disorders such as Cushing's syndrome and Addison's disease
• Assessing hormonal imbalances in females, particularly in cases of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Detecting ovarian and testicular cancers
• Monitoring thyroid function and identifying issues related to overactive or underactive thyroid
• Evaluating the effects of stress, obesity, and other metabolic disorders on hormone levels

List of Parameters Considered During the 17-Ketosteroids Test

The 17-ketosteroids test measures the total amount of 17-ketosteroids excreted in urine over a 24-hour period. The compounds analysed include:

• Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
• Androsterone
• Etiocholanolone
• 11-Keto-androsterone
• 11-Keto-etiocholanolone
• 11-Hydroxy-androsterone
• 11-Hydroxy-etiocholanolone

These parameters provide an indication of the level of androgenic activity in the body. Increased levels may suggest conditions such as Cushing's syndrome, PCOS, ovarian or testicular cancer, or an overactive thyroid. Conversely, decreased levels may point towards Addison's disease, kidney damage, hypopituitarism, or removal of the testicles.

17-Ketosteroids Test Preparation

To ensure accurate results, it is essential to follow these steps when preparing for a 17-ketosteroids test:

• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking, especially antibiotics, aspirin, birth control pills, diuretics, and oestrogen.
• Do not stop any medication without consulting your doctor first.
• Fasting or dietary changes are not necessary for this test.
• Collect urine samples over a 24-hour period, starting after the first morning void, using a clean container and labelling them with the time of collection.
• Ensure proper cleanliness of the genital area before collecting the sample to avoid contamination.

17-Ketosteroids Test Results & Interpretation

The normal ranges for the 17-ketosteroids test are as follows:

• Male: 7 to 20 mg per 24 hours
• Female: 5 to 15 mg per 24 hours

It is crucial to note that normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Discussing the specific results with your healthcare provider is essential for understanding their implications.

Abnormal results may indicate the following:

• Increased Levels: May suggest Cushing's syndrome, PCOS, ovarian or testicular cancer, overactive thyroid, obesity, stress, or other metabolic disorders
• Decreased Levels: May point towards Addison's disease, kidney damage, hypopituitarism, or removal of the testicles

Home Collection for 17-Ketosteroids Test

Metropolis Healthcare offers a convenient home sample collection service for the 17-ketosteroids test, ensuring comfort and safety for patients. A trained phlebotomist will visit your doorstep to collect the necessary urine samples, maintaining the highest standards of sample handling and testing accuracy. This service allows individuals to undergo the 17-ketosteroids test procedure without compromising on the quality of results or the need to visit a clinic. With timely and reliable reports, Metropolis Healthcare's home collection option reflects their commitment to making healthcare accessible and providing quality diagnostic solutions in the comfort of your own home.