17-Ketosteroids (24 hour urine)

General Information

Urinary 17-ketosteroids are compounds resulting from the metabolism of androgens and other hormones synthesized by the adrenal cortex.

The increase of these compounds in the urine is usually related to the hyperfunction of the mentioned glands, which may be caused by a tumor or gland hyperplasia. The decrease in the number is related to diseases with gland damage.

In such diseases as myxedema, gout, arthritis - the release of 17-ketosteroids is disturbed. Decreased concentration is manifested in young and very old age.

When should we do the research?

The need for research is raised by the attending physician, in the case of disorders of androgen and other corticoid metabolism

Indicators of the norm

Female: 6 – 15 mg/24 hours

Man: 8 – 22 mg/24 hours

The normal indicators may vary more or less in different laboratories.

An increase in the level of 17-ketosteroids It may be caused by such pathologies as:

Adrenal gland tumor, Cushing's syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome

Ovarian cancer

Testicular cancer

Thyroid hyperfunction

Obesity

stress

17 lack of ketosteroids Characterized by:

Adrenal gland failure (Addison's disease)

Kidney damage

functional failure of the pituitary gland

Castration

Research material

24-hour urine.

advance preparation

It does not require specific preliminary preparation, however, it is recommended that the doctor be informed about taking such medications as: antibiotics, aspirin, contraceptives, diuretics, estrogens.