17 URINE KETONE STEROIDS

17-ketosteroids are compounds that emerge during the breakdown of male steroid sex hormones (androgens) and other hormones released by the adrenal glands, present in both males and females. Elevated levels of 17-ketosteroids may signal various conditions, including adrenal gland issues such as tumors or Cushing’s syndrome, imbalances in female sex hormones like polycystic ovary syndrome, ovarian or testicular cancer, an overactive thyroid, obesity, or heightened stress levels. On the other hand, reduced levels of 17-ketosteroids may be linked to factors such as Addison’s disease affecting the adrenal glands, kidney damage, hypopituitarism affecting the pituitary gland’s hormone production, or the surgical removal of the testicles (castration). Monitoring these levels offers crucial insights into hormonal health and aids in the diagnosis of underlying medical conditions, a valuable tool for Hypro Diagnostics.