Medical Health Encyclopedia

17-hydroxycorticosteroids

How the test will feel:

The test involves only normal urination, and there is no discomfort.

Why the test is performed:

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Cortisol is a steroid hormone released from the adrenal cortex in response to adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH). Cortisol is then metabolized into inactive products such as 17-OHCS by the liver and other tissues. These inactive products are excreted by the body in the urine. Measurements of 17-OHCS in the urine can be helpful in determining if the body is producing too much cortisol.

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