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Steroid Panel: 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Steroid Panel: 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency Test

Short Name: 21-OHD Steroid Panel

Also known as: 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency Steroid Panel, Adrenal Steroid Profile, CAH Steroid Profile, 17-OHP + 21-Deoxycortisol Profile

Steroid Panel: 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹4,000. Uses LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry) on Serum samples. Results in Samples received by 9 am on Monday generate reports on Wednesday; samples received by 9 am on Thursday generate reports on Saturday.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Hormone PanelAll ages; particularly neonates, children, and adults with suspected CAH🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The primary purpose of the Steroid Panel: 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency Test is to evaluate adrenal steroid hormone synthesis in individuals suspected of having 21-hydroxylase deficiency. It measures 17-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, cortisol, and 21-deoxycortisol using LC-MS/MS, and provides a ratio to improve diagnostic interpretation. This panel is particularly useful in confirming cases of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), differentiating non-classical forms, and reducing false-positive newborn screening results.

Test Code
3667
ICD Code
E25.0
Price
₹4,000
Sample Type
Serum
Result Time
Samples received by 9 am on Monday generate reports on Wednesday; samples received by 9 am on Thursday generate reports on Saturday.
Fasting Required
No
Method
LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry)
Step 1

Sample Collection

No fasting is required. The sample should be collected between 8-10 am or 4-6 pm. Please write the exact collection date and time on the specimen container and test request form.

Method: Venous blood draw

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A trained phlebotomist will draw approximately 2 mL of venous blood into a red top tube without additive. The procedure takes only a few minutes.

Step 3

Report Delivery

You can resume your normal routine immediately. Keep the collection site clean and apply pressure if bleeding occurs.

Timeline: Samples received by 9 am on Monday generate reports on Wednesday; samples received by 9 am on Thursday generate reports on Saturday.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No fasting is required. Follow the diurnal collection window (8-10 am or 4-6 pm) and inform the lab of any medications or illnesses that may affect steroid hormone results.
2
During the Test:A blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm. The process is quick and well tolerated.
3
After the Test:No specific recovery measures are needed. You may eat, drink, and resume normal activities immediately.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The primary purpose of the Steroid Panel: 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency Test is to evaluate adrenal steroid hormone synthesis in individuals suspected of having 21-hydroxylase deficiency. It measures 17-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, cortisol, and 21-deoxycortisol using LC-MS/MS, and provides a ratio to improve diagnostic interpretation. This panel is particularly useful in confirming cases of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), differentiating non-classical forms, and reducing false-positive newborn screening results.

How to Prepare

  • Collect 2 mL serum in a red top tube with no additive
  • Do not use SST gel barrier tubes
  • Collect between 8-10 am or 4-6 pm and write the exact date and time on the container and request form
  • Ship refrigerated or frozen

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Biochemistry) · Reg. No. 21504

"A single elevated 17-OHP value is not diagnostic. This steroid panel should be interpreted using age- and sex-specific reference intervals. If baseline results are inconclusive, an ACTH stimulation test or CYP21A2 genetic analysis may be required."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeSerum
Sample Volume2 mL (1 mL min.)
Container1 Red Top (No Additive) tube. Do not use SST gel barrier tubes.
Collection MethodVenous blood draw

Sample Stability

Room Temperature8 hours
Refrigerated7 days
Frozen7 weeks
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • SST gel barrier tube used
  • Time of sample collection not provided
  • Sample not collected during the specified diurnal window
  • Improper labeling or incorrect transport temperature

Understanding Your Results

This steroid panel should be interpreted by an endocrinologist together with clinical findings and age- and sex-specific reference intervals.
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⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

See an endocrinologist promptly if you or your child have symptoms such as ambiguous genitalia, unexplained vomiting, dehydration, low blood pressure, early puberty, severe hirsutism, irregular periods, infertility, or an abnormal steroid panel result.

Limitations

  • This panel may not distinguish all genetic causes of CAH; CYP21A2 genetic testing may be required
  • Borderline results may require ACTH stimulation testing for confirmation
  • Reference intervals must be adjusted for age, sex, pubertal stage, and clinical context

Risks & Considerations

  • Minimal pain or bruising at the puncture site
  • Rarely, bleeding, infection, or dizziness after blood collection

Interfering Factors

  • Physiological stress can cause false positive 17-OHP results in newborns
  • Glucocorticoid or sex-steroid therapy may alter steroid hormone levels
  • Sample collection outside the specified diurnal window may affect interpretation

Compare With Similar Tests

TestSteroid Panel: 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency Test
ComparisonSteroid Panel: 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the Steroid Panel: 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency Test at DNA Labs India?
The test costs Rs 4000 and includes free home sample collection for online bookings.
What sample is needed for this test?
2 mL serum (1 mL minimum) is collected in a red top tube without additive. SST gel barrier tubes must not be used.
Is fasting required before the test?
No fasting is required. However, because of diurnal variation, the sample should be taken between 8-10 am or 4-6 pm.
Why are the collection times important?
Cortisol and related adrenal steroids show diurnal variation. Using standard collection windows reduces misinterpretation.
Which hormones are measured in the steroid panel?
The panel measures 17-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, cortisol, and 21-deoxycortisol, along with the 17-OHP + 21-deoxycortisol : cortisol ratio.
What is 21-hydroxylase deficiency?
It is a genetic condition affecting the adrenal glands' ability to produce steroid hormones, especially cortisol, and can lead to excess androgen production.
What is congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)?
CAH is a group of inherited adrenal gland disorders. 21-hydroxylase deficiency accounts for more than 90% of CAH cases.
How will my results be interpreted?
Elevated 17-OHP, 21-deoxycortisol and androgens with low or normal cortisol suggest 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Results are interpreted with age- and sex-specific reference intervals.
Can this test be used for newborn screening of CAH?
Newborn screening commonly uses 17-OHP. LC-MS/MS steroid profiling by this panel can improve the positive predictive value of newborn screening for CAH.
How long will the report take?
If the sample reaches the lab by 9 am on Monday or Thursday, the report is issued on Wednesday or Saturday, respectively.
Is home sample collection available?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for online bookings across many cities.
What should I do if my steroid panel is abnormal?
You should consult an endocrinologist. Further testing, such as an ACTH stimulation test or CYP21A2 genetic analysis, may be recommended.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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