Description of the urine analysis: 

The 17-ketosteroids (17-KS) test measures the total amount of specific metabolic byproducts derived from androgens (male sex hormones) excreted in the urine. These compounds are primarily produced by the adrenal cortex (in both sexes) and by the testes (in men). By analyzing the 24-hour concentration of 17-KS, clinicians can gain a comprehensive overview of the daily secretory activity of the adrenal glands. This test serves as a foundational diagnostic tool for investigating hormonal imbalances, particularly those involving the overproduction of “male-type” hormones that can affect physical development and reproductive health.

What does the analysis represent?

• Goal: To determine the cumulative 24-hour excretion of androgen metabolites.
• Primary Application: Investigating conditions related to adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal tumors, and signs of virilization (masculinization) in women or children.
• Method: Biochemical quantification via colorimetric reaction or chromatography from a pooled urine sample.

Recommendations for the Test (General)

• Time: Requires a complete 24-hour urine collection. Begin the collection after the first morning void (discard the first one) and collect all subsequent urine, including the first void of the following morning.
• Hygiene: Thorough cleaning of the external genital area is required before each collection to maintain sample purity.
• Collection: Use a large, clean, laboratory-provided container. The entire volume must be kept chilled (refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C) during the 24-hour period.
• Specific Rules: Avoid vibrant foods like beets or carrots for 48 hours, as they may interfere with colorimetric testing.

What can affect the results?

• Factors altering levels: Physical exhaustion or acute emotional trauma; use of medications such as birth control pills, certain antibiotics, or diuretics; and the consumption of alcohol during the collection window.

When to take the test?

• Recommendations: For patients experiencing symptoms such as excessive facial hair growth (hirsutism) in women, irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, or signs of early puberty in children.
• Preparation: It is essential to record the total volume of urine collected over the 24 hours (total diuresis) and communicate this to the laboratory staff.

How to interpret the results?

Evaluating the levels of 17-ketosteroids is a complex clinical task that must be performed by your endocrinologist. Because normal ranges vary significantly based on age and sex, a “high” or “low” reading cannot be interpreted in isolation. Your physician will perform a comprehensive analysis, comparing these results with your physical symptoms and other hormonal markers. The doctor’s role is to determine if an abnormality represents a structural issue within the adrenal glands or a functional response to systemic stress or weight fluctuations. Relying on professional interpretation ensures that transient spikes are not mistaken for chronic endocrine pathologies.

Possible further investigations

• DHEA-Sulfate (DHEA-S): A more specific blood test for adrenal androgens.
• 17-OH Progesterone: To screen for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH).
• Pelvic or Adrenal Ultrasound: To visualize the ovaries or adrenal glands for cysts or masses.
• Dexamethasone Suppression Test: To further investigate adrenal cortex overactivity.
• Consultation with an Endocrinologist.

When does the next step make sense? 

If the 17-KS levels are significantly elevated, the next logical step involves more specific blood work and imaging to pinpoint the exact source of the excess hormones. Identifying the root cause of an androgen imbalance early is crucial for effective treatment and preventing further metabolic or physical changes.

👉 If necessary, you can discuss the results of the analysis with a specialist, such as an Endocrinologist (Doctors – TAMC).