This test looks for certain natural chemicals called 17-ketosteroids in your urine. These chemicals are made from the breakdown of steroid hormones by your adrenal glands and reproductive organs. Your doctor may suggest this assessment if there are signs of hormone imbalance, like unusual tiredness, irregular periods, or unwanted hair growth. The results offer important clues about how well your adrenal glands and hormones are working, and can help find or monitor conditions that affect these glands.

What It Measures

The urine hormone breakdown test checks for a group of compounds called 17-ketosteroids, collected over a 24-hour period. Here’s what it looks at:

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): A hormone mainly from the adrenal glands that is an early step in making both male and female hormones.
Androsterone and Etiocholanolone: These are byproducts of testosterone and other androgens, showing how much your body is breaking down these hormones.
11-Keto-Androsterone & 11-Keto-Etiocholanolone: Markers that help check adrenal function and metabolism.
11-Hydroxy-Androsterone & 11-Hydroxy-Etiocholanolone: They help to further drill down the source of androgen production and any possible imbalances.
Total 17-Ketosteroids: The sum of these byproducts gives an overall picture of how your adrenal glands and reproductive organs are working.

Measuring these substances can spot excess or lack of hormone activity, which could relate to conditions of the adrenal glands, hormonal disorders, or certain types of tumors.

Why is it Important?

Assesses Hormonal Health:
This test helps show if your adrenal glands and reproductive organs are working as they should, which is vital for body hormone balance, energy, and growth.
Helps Diagnose Disorders:
Abnormal levels might suggest issues like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Cushing’s syndrome, testicular or ovarian tumors, or disorders like Addison’s disease.
Monitors Treatment:
For people being treated for hormone-related problems, the test can help track how well treatments are working and guide changes as needed.
Checks Symptoms:
If you have symptoms like unexplained weight gain, acne, or irregular periods, the test results may help your doctor find the root cause and make a treatment plan.
Detects Stress Effects:
Prolonged stress and metabolic disorders can also change your body's levels, so these results can help your doctor see the larger health picture.

When Should I Get This Test?

Consider this test if you notice:

Unexplained fatigue, weakness, or tiredness
Irregular periods or changes in body hair growth
Symptoms like persistent acne or oily skin
Early or delayed puberty in children
Changes in body shape or sudden weight gain/loss

If your doctor suspects an adrenal or hormone disorder, or wants to check your hormone balance, this test may be recommended.

Interpretation of Test Results

Understanding what your results might mean is helpful, but always discuss them with a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Result Type	What it Means
Normal	Adrenal and hormone production is likely within healthy range
Borderline	Results may be just out of range; further checks may be needed
Abnormal	Levels are higher or lower than expected – could mean an underlying condition like PCOS, Cushing’s syndrome, Addison’s disease, or tumors; more tests may be needed

(Note: Specific normal ranges can vary slightly between labs and depending on individual factors. Always refer to the ranges provided on your report and consult your doctor.)

Additional Information

Test results may be affected by some medicines or supplements; tell your doctor about all that you take.
A single test result usually isn’t enough for a full diagnosis—your doctor may recommend follow-up or other testing.
Healthy lifestyle tips, like stress management and balanced nutrition, can support hormone health.

Test Requirements

Sample Type: Urine sample collected over 24 hours.
Preparation: Fasting is not required. Avoid certain medicines and foods (like bananas, tea, and coffee) if advised by your doctor, as these may affect results.
Precautions: Clean genital area before collecting urine. Store sample in the refrigerator as directed until taken to the lab.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is fasting needed before the 17-hormone breakdown urine test?
No, fasting is not required for this test. You can eat and drink as usual, but follow any specific instructions from your doctor about medication or diet.
Can this test be done during pregnancy?
Yes, but pregnancy can change hormone levels, which might affect results. Always tell your doctor if you are pregnant so they can interpret results properly.
What if my result is slightly high or low?
Borderline or mild changes may need only repeat testing or more discussion. Medicines, diet, or stress can sometimes cause these results, so always talk to your doctor.
Can I drink water while collecting my urine sample?
Yes, drinking water is encouraged to help you collect all urine over 24 hours. Just avoid other drinks (like tea or coffee) only if your doctor says so.
What should I do after getting an abnormal result?
Do not worry—many conditions can change hormone levels. Your doctor will explain what your results mean and may advise further tests or specialist care as needed.

For more information, see Netmeds Health Library blog: Cortisol Level Test: Purpose, Procedure And Results

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