Name of the Procedure:

Ketosteroids, 17- (17-KS); fractionation

Summary

17-Ketosteroids (17-KS) fractionation is a lab test that measures the levels of 17-KS in urine. This hormone test can help diagnose and monitor conditions related to adrenal gland and gonadal function.

Purpose

• Addresses adrenal gland and gonadal disorders.
• Diagnose conditions such as adrenal tumors, adrenal hyperplasia, and certain types of cancer.
• Monitor adrenal and gonadal function over time.

Indications

• Symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, fatigue, high blood pressure, or abnormal hair growth.
• Conditions like Cushing's syndrome, adrenal hyperplasia, or testicular or ovarian tumors.
• Periodic monitoring for patients with known adrenal or gonadal disorders.

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to fast for 8-12 hours before the test.
• Avoid certain medications and foods that may affect hormone levels, as advised by a healthcare provider.
• A 24-hour urine sample may be required, involving collection of all urine passed in a 24-hour period.

Procedure Description

1. Patient collects all urine passed over a 24-hour period in a provided container.
2. The urine sample is sent to the lab for analysis.
3. The lab measures the levels of 17-Ketosteroids present in the urine.

4. Fractionation separates different components of the 17-KS to provide detailed hormonal profiles.

   No anesthesia or sedation is required for the urine collection process.

Duration

The urine collection takes 24 hours. Lab analysis and results typically take a few days.

Setting

The procedure can be conducted at home for urine collection, with analysis performed in a medical laboratory.

Personnel

• Patient for urine collection
• Laboratory technicians for analysis
• Healthcare provider for interpreting results

Risks and Complications

• No significant risks associated with urine collection.
• Potential for inaccurate results if urine collection is not done properly.

Benefits

• Helps accurately diagnose and monitor adrenal and gonadal disorders.
• Guides treatment decisions and adjustments.

Recovery

• No specific recovery needed after urine collection.
• Follow-up with a healthcare provider to discuss results and next steps.

Alternatives

• Blood tests to measure other hormone levels.
• Imaging studies like CT scans or MRIs for adrenal and gonadal tumors.
• The alternatives may be more invasive or costly, but provide additional information.

Patient Experience

• Collecting urine for 24 hours can be cumbersome but is a relatively non-invasive process.
• No significant discomfort is typically experienced.
• Patients should follow instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.