17a hydroxyprogesterone belongs to endogenous progesterone, which is mainly secreted by the adrenal cortex and gonads, and by checking this index, it is possible to determine whether the newborn has congenital adrenocortical hyperplasia.
Under normal circumstances, the range value of 17a hydroxyprogesterone should be between 0.1-0.8ng/ml. If the test exceeds the normal range value, there are usually a variety of manifestations such as loss of appetite, vomiting, and oversized genitals, which are mostly due to the abnormal synthesis of adrenocorticotropic hormone.
A certain defect in the synthesis of adrenocorticotropic hormone can lead to an overproduction of androgens in the newborn. In girls, this condition may be accompanied by symptoms of masculinization, while in boys, it may cause precocious puberty and may even be complicated by a variety of diseases such as hyponatremia and hypertension.
Abnormal values in the test require further examination and treatment. If the result is low, progesterone tablets or intramuscular injection of progesterone are needed to supplement the body with progesterone under the guidance of the doctor.