17-Hydroxyprogesterone

17-Hydroxyprogesterone is a hormone involved in the body's production of steroids, including cortisol and androgens. It is a natural substance made in the adrenal glands and ovaries. Measuring its levels helps doctors identify certain hormonal disorders, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a condition where the body can't make enough cortisol. Elevated or low levels can indicate these issues, guiding diagnosis and treatment. Overall, 17-hydroxyprogesterone is an important marker for understanding how the body's endocrine (hormonal) system is functioning.