Name of the Procedure:

Hydroxycorticosteroids, 17-OHCS (also known as 17-Hydroxycorticosteroids Test)

Summary

The 17-Hydroxycorticosteroids Test measures the levels of 17-hydroxycorticosteroids in the urine to assess adrenal gland function. It is a simple diagnostic test that requires the collection of urine over a 24-hour period.

Purpose

This test helps diagnose conditions related to abnormal adrenal function, such as Cushing's syndrome or Addison's disease. The goal is to determine whether the adrenal glands are producing an appropriate amount of steroid hormones.

Indications

• Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome (e.g., weight gain, high blood pressure, muscle weakness)
• Symptoms of Addison's disease (e.g., fatigue, muscle weakness, weight loss, low blood pressure)
• Suspected adrenal gland tumors
• Monitoring effectiveness of treatment for adrenal disorders

Preparation

• Collect all urine over a 24-hour period.
• Store the urine in a cool place during collection.
• Follow any dietary or medication restrictions given by the healthcare provider.

Procedure Description

1. 24-hour Urine Collection:

   • Receive a special container for urine collection.
   • Start collection in the morning after discarding the first urine of the day.
   • Collect all urine for the next 24 hours, including the first morning urine of the second day.
   • Keep the container refrigerated during the collection period.

2. Laboratory Analysis:

   • Return the collected urine to the lab.
   • Lab professionals measure the concentration of 17-hydroxycorticosteroids.

Duration

The urine collection takes 24 hours. Lab analysis time may vary but typically takes a few days.

Setting

The collection takes place at home. The analysis is performed in a medical laboratory.

Personnel

• Patient (for urine collection)
• Lab technician (for analysis)

Risks and Complications

There are minimal risks involved, primarily related to the accuracy of urine collection. Inaccurate collection may lead to incorrect results.

Benefits

• Provides important information on adrenal gland function.
• Helps diagnose adrenal disorders.
• A non-invasive, easy-to-complete test.

Recovery

No recovery required as it is a non-invasive procedure.

Alternatives

• Blood test for cortisol levels.
• ACTH stimulation test.
• Dexamethasone suppression test.

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Blood Test for Cortisol: Faster results but may require multiple samples.
• ACTH Stimulation Test: More direct assessment of adrenal function but involves blood draws and injections.
• Dexamethasone Suppression Test: Helps differentiate between types of adrenal disorders but may require taking oral medication and multiple blood tests.

Patient Experience

Patients will generally not experience any pain or discomfort. They may find the procedure somewhat inconvenient due to the need to collect all urine for 24 hours. Proper instructions and support from healthcare providers can alleviate concerns.