Steroid Metabolites
| About This Test |
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Department: Biochemistry (referred) Requirement:
OR
Turnaround Time: 6 - 8 weeks |
Background:
Produces a composite picture of adrenal function, for investigation of disorders of adrenal steroid biosynthesis; 46XY disorders of sex differentiation (DSD,Male pseudohermaphroditism); steroid-producing tumours; steroid sulphatase deficiency; congenital adrenal hypoplasia; premature adrenarche / precocious puberty; adrenal suppression (exogenous steroids).
In cases of ambiguous genitalia it is important to obtain a karyotype.
If the patient has hypertension, plasma renin activity and plasma aldosterone concentrations should be checked before considering steroid profile analysis. Endogenous cortisol production cannot usefully be examined if hydrocortisone or cortisone acetate is being given. If glucocorticoid treatment is essential, dexamethasone is preferred since dexamethasone metabolites do not interfere in the assay.
Only appropriate in neonates > 3 days of age.
Other Comments:
Analysed at SAS Endocrine Laboratory, Clinical Biochemistry, 8th Floor, Charing Cross Hospital, Imperial College NHS Healthcare Trust, Fulham Palace Road, London, W6 8RF
See also: Plasma renin, plasma aldosterone
Interpretive comments will be provided by the referral laboratory