Basal 17-OHP Research Articles

Prevalence of endocrine disorders in 304 premenopausal women referred with oligomenorrhoea.

We aimed to evaluate 304 premenopausal women admitted to our clinic for oligomenorrhoea, and to screen for Cushing's syndrome (CS) in this population. The study included 304 premenopausal women referred to our clinic for oligomenorrhoea. Anthropometric measurements and Ferriman-Gallwey score were evaluated, and thyroid hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), total testosterone, prolactin, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEA-S), and 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) levels were measured in all patients. If basal 17-OHP was > 2 ng/mL, we evaluated adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-stimulated 17-OHP levels. CS was screened by 1 mg-dexamethasone suppression test, and if the cortisol value was > 1.8 μg/dL, we performed additional confirmatory tests, and if necessary, pituitary magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and inferior petrosal sinus sampling (IPSS) were performed. The most common cause of oligomenorrhoea was polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) that was detected in 81.57% of cases, followed by hyperprolactinemia at 7.23% and hypothalamic anovulation at 5.26%. The prevalence of premature ovarian failure (POF) was 1.6%, and non-classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCAH) was 1.97%. CS was detected in 7 (2.30%) patients. All the patients with CS were found to have Cushing's disease (CD). Although 3 patients with CD had classical signs and symptoms, 4 had none. Patients with CD had similar total testosterone values to those in the PCOS and NCAH groups, but they had significantly higher DHEA-S compared to both groups (CD vs. PCOS, p = 0.001 and CD vs. NCAH, p = 0.030). We found higher prevalence of CS in patients with oligomenorrhoea even in the absence of clinical signs. Therefore, we suggest routine screening for CS during the evaluation of patients with oligomenorrhoea and/or PCOS. The likelihood of CS is greater in patients with high androgen, especially DHEA-S levels.

Serum 21-Deoxycortisol for Diagnosis of Nonclassic Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia in Women With Androgen Excess.

Nonclassic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCCAH) requires exclusion before diagnosing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Increasing use of liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) necessitates revision of immunoassay-based criteria for NCCAH. Measurement of 21-deoxycortisol (21DF) may simplify the diagnosis of heterozygosity (HTZ), the presence of 1 affected CYP21A2 allele, which currently relies on complex molecular studies. We aimed to determine LC-MS/MS-specific criteria for NCCAH and HTZ and compare the diagnostic accuracy of 21DF and 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP). A cross-sectional study involving 99 hyperandrogenic females was performed. We identified females who had undergone both a synacthen stimulation test (SST) and CYP21A2 genotyping from 2010 to 2017, and prospectively recruited females referred for an SST to investigate hyperandrogenic symptoms from 2017 to 2021. Steroids were compared between genetically confirmed NCCAH, HTZ, and PCOS. Optimal 17OHP and 21DF thresholds for HTZ and NCCAH were determined by receiver operating characteristic analysis. Basal 17OHP, stimulated 17OHP, and 21DF were measured in 99, 85, and 42 participants, respectively. Optimal thresholds for NCCAH were 3.0 nmol/L and 20.7 nmol/L for basal and stimulated 17OHP, respectively. Basal and stimulated 21DF thresholds of 0.31 nmol/L and 13.3 nmol/L provided 100% sensitivity with specificities of 96.8% and 100% for NCCAH, respectively. Diagnostic thresholds for HTZ of 8.0 nmol/L, 1.0 nmol/L, and 13.6 for stimulated 17OHP, 21DF, and the ratio (21DF + 17OHP)/cortisol each provided 100% sensitivity with specificities of 80.4%, 90.5%, and 85.0%, respectively. LC-MS/MS-specific 17OHP thresholds for NCCAH are lower than those based on immunoassay. LC-MS/MS-quantified 17OHP and 21DF accurately discriminate HTZ and NCCAH from PCOS.

An unusual cause of adrenal insufficiency with elevation of 17-hydroxyprogesterone: case report

BackgroundWe present an intriguing case of primary adrenal lymphoma, with associated primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI), in a patient presenting a transitory partial 21-hydroxylase deficiency during the active phase of the adrenal disease.Case presentationAn 85-years old woman was referred because of worsening asthenia, lumbar pain, generalized myalgia and arthralgia. During investigations a computed tomography (CT) scan evidenced two large bilateral adrenal masses, highly suspicious for primary adrenal tumor. The hormonal assessment revealed very low levels of morning plasma cortisol and 24-h urinary cortisol, elevated ACTH levels with low plasma concentration of aldosterone, pointing to the diagnosis of PAI. After diagnosis of PAI our patient started glucocorticoid and mineralcorticoid replacement therapy with clinical benefit. In order to further characterize the adrenal lesions, adrenal biopsy, was performed. The histology revealed a high grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma with an immunophenotype consistent with intermediate aspects between diffuse large B-cell and Burkitt lymphoma, with a high proliferation index (KI-67 > 90%). The patient received chemotherapy with epirubicin, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab, associated with methylprednisolone that resulted in a complete clinical and radiological remission within one year. After 2 years from the diagnosis and a total of 6 cycles of rituximab, the patient was in good clinical condition and was taking only the replacement therapy for PAI. The patient initially presented also a slight increase of 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) for age that normalize after resolution of lymphoproliferative disease.ConclusionsIn the presence of bilateral adrenal disease and/or in the presence of signs and symptoms of PAI clinicians must exclude the presence of PAL. The evidence of elevated ACTH-stimulated 17-OHP levels also in patients with other adrenal masses, together with the detection of elevated basal 17-OHP levels in our patient make it more plausible, in our view, an effect of the lesion on the “healthy” adrenal tissue residue than a direct secretory activity by the adrenal tumor.

Premature Pubarche: Time to Revise the Diagnostic Approach?

Premature pubarche (PP) could represent the first manifestation of non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia caused by 21 hydroxylase deficiency (NC21OHD) (10-30% of cases). In the last 20 years, the necessity of performing an ACTH test to diagnose NC21OHD in all cases with PP has been questioned, with conflicting results. This study aims to retrospectively evaluate the predictive value of the basal androgens, 17-OHP levels, and auxological features in suggesting the presence of NC21OHD and, thus, the need for a standard ACTH test to confirm the diagnosis. In all, 111 consecutive patients (87 females) with PP and advanced bone age underwent an ACTH test. Of these, 6/111 cases (1 male) were diagnosed with NC21OHD. The mean baseline 17 hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), delta 4 androstenedione (Δ4A), and testosterone serum levels were higher in NC21OHD patients than in the others (p < 0.05). We found three predictive features for NC21OHD: basal 17 OHP of >200 ng/mL, bone age advance of >2 years, and DHEA-S levels of >228 ng/mL with sensitivity and specificity of 83.3% and 97.1%, 83.3% and 65.7%, and 83.3% and 96.2%, respectively. Our data confirm that the prevalence of NC21OHD is low among patients with PP. Serum 17-OHP of >200 ng/mL could be helpful to decide, in most cases, which patients should undergo the ACTH test. Bone age advance represented an inadequately specific predictive marker of NC21OHD.

Clinical analysis of 78 patients with nonclassical 21-hydroxylase deficiency.

Retrospectively analyze the clinical characteristics of patients with nonclassical 21-hydroxylase deficiency (NC21OHD) as well as the relationship between the gene mutations and endocrine hormones. In addition, the relationship between different basal 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) levels and patients' glucolipid metabolism, hormone levels, pregnancy, and treatment outcomes were examined. Clinical data of 78 females with NC21OHD from January 2012 to July 2022 in the Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University were retrospectively analyzed. Diagnosis was based on the 17OHP level combined with clinical manifestations, imaging, and other endocrine hormones and the cytochrome P450 c21, steroid 21-hydroxylase (CYP21A2) gene. The age at diagnosis of the 78 patients was 29.1 ± 4.2years; 83.3% (65/78) of the patients had menstrual abnormalities, 70 patients were of childbearing age, and 97.1% (68/70) had a history of infertility with a median time of infertility of 3.6years. Moreover, 71.8% (56/78) of the patients had polycystic ovaries, 26.9% (21/78) had hyperandrogenemia manifestations on physical examination, 66.7% (52/78) had adrenal hyperplasia, 32.1% (25/78) had combined dyslipidemia, and 41.0% (32/78) had combined insulin resistance. Pathogenic mutations were detected in 78.2% (61/78) of the patients with both CYP21A2 alleles; 14.1% (11/78) of the patients had only one allele and 7.7% (6/78) had no pathogenic mutations. The levels of total testosterone (TT), progesterone (P) (0min, 30min), and 17-OHP (0min, 30min, 60min) in the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test varied between the groups. Furthermore, patients with NC21OHD were divided into 17OHP < 2ng/ml, 2ng/ml < 17OHP < 10ng/ml, and 17OHP ≥ 10ng/ml groups according to their different basal 17OHP levels. The 17OHP ≥ 10ng/ml group had significantly higher TT, FT4, basal and post-stimulation progesterone, and 17OHP, net value added of 17-hydroxyprogesterone (△17OHP), net value added of 17-hydroxyprogesterone/net value added of cortisol ratio (△17OHP/△F), the incidence of adrenal hyperplasia, and number of gene mutations compared to those of the 17OHP < 2ng/ml group (P < 0.05). NC21OHD infertile patients who received low-dose glucocorticoids showed a significant increase in pregnancy and live birth rates, and a significant decrease in miscarriage rate (all P < 0.05). Comprehensive analysis is important as NCCAH diagnoses may be false positive or false negative based on clinical characteristics, hormone levels, and gene detection. Females with NC21OHD showed varying degrees of fertility decline; thus, low doses of glucocorticoid treatment for infertile females with NC21OHD can improve fertility and fertility outcomes.

Screening for non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia in women: New insights using different immunoassays.

The 250µg-cosyntropin stimulation test (CST) is used to diagnose non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCCAH). The current recommendation is to perform CST when follicular 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) is 6-30 nmol/L, a cutoff derived from radioimmunoassay (RIA). Recently, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) has replaced RIA. We aimed to (1) determine the RIA and ELISA-based 17OHP cutoffs at which CST should be performed, (2) identify predictors of NCCAH. A retrospective study at an Israeli Health Maintenance Organization. Data were retrieved from women with suspected NCCAH, referred for CST during 2001-2020. NCCAH was defined as a stimulated 17OHP >30 nmol/L. Serum 17OHP levels were assayed by RIA from 1/2000-3/2015, and by ELISA from 4/2015-12/2020. ROC curves were generated and optimal 17OHP thresholds were determined. Multivariate analysis was performed. CST was performed in 2409 women (1564 in RIA, 845 in ELISA). NCCAH was diagnosed in 4.7% of the RIA group and 7.5% of the ELISA group. The optimal basal 17OHP cutoff values predicting NCCAH were 6.1 nmol/L in RIA (sensitivity=93.2%, specificity=91.7%) and 8.2 nmol/L in ELISA (sensitivity=93.7%, specificity=92.3%). In multivariate analysis, higher basal 17OHP, lower LH: FSH ratio, and oligomenorrhea were predictors of NCCAH in RIA. Higher basal 17OHP, androstenedione, and total testosterone were predictors of NCCAH in ELISA. A lower LH: FSH ratio showed similar trend in ELISA. Optimal RIA-based basal 17OHP cutoff was comparable with that recommended in guidelines. The results suggest adopting a higher 17OHP cutoff when using ELISA. LH : FSH ratio improves the negative predictive value of basal 17OHP.

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia is a very rare cause of adrenal incidentalomas in Sweden.

Undiagnosed congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) can cause adrenal incidentalomas, but the frequency is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of CAH in a population with adrenal incidentalomas and report the clinical characterization. This was a prospective study performed at a regional hospital from 2016 to 2021. Patients with adrenal incidentalomas were investigated with an adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-stimulation test in addition to hormonal workup. Serum cortisol and 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) were analyzed. Individuals with a basal or stimulated 17OHP ≥30 nmol/L were classified as suspicious non-classic CAH, and a CYP21A2-gene analysis was performed in these subjects. In total, 320 individuals with adrenal incidentalomas were referred to the center, and of these individuals, an ACTH-stimulation test was performed in 222 (median age, 67 (24-87) years; 58.6% women; and 11.7% with bilateral lesions). None of the individuals presented a basal 17OHP ≥30 nmol/L, but there were 8 (3.6%) who did after ACTH stimulation. Four of these subjects (50%) presented bilateral lesions, and the tumor size was larger compared to that of the individuals with a stimulated 17OHP <30 nmol/L (median, 38 (19-66) vs. 19 (11-85) mm, p=0.001). A CYP21A2 variation (p.Val282Leu) was detected in one of the eight subjects with a stimulated 17OHP ≥30 nmol/L, i.e., the patient was a heterozygotic carrier. None of the eight subjects presented with cortisol insufficiency or clinical signs of hyperandrogenism. The prevalence of non-classic CAH in an adrenal incidentaloma cohort was 3.6% based on stimulated 17OHP and 0% based on gene analysis. CAH should be considered in AI management in selected cases and confirmed by genetic analysis.

A Multiclassifier System to Identify and Subtype Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Based on Circulating Steroid Hormones.

ContextMeasurement of plasma steroids is necessary for diagnosis of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). We sought to establish an efficient strategy for detection and subtyping of CAH with a machine-learning algorithm.MethodsClinical phenotype and genetic testing were used to provide CAH diagnosis and subtype. We profiled 13 major steroid hormones by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. A multiclassifier system was established to distinguish 11β-hydroxylase deficiency (11βOHD), 17α-hydroxylase/17,20-lyase deficiency (17OHD), and 21α-hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD) in a discovery cohort (n = 226). It was then validated in an independent cohort (n = 111) and finally applied in a perspective cohort of 256 patients. The diagnostic performance on the basis of area under receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) was evaluated.ResultsA cascade logistic regression model, we named the “Steroidogenesis Score”, was able to discriminate the 3 most common CAH subtypes: 11βOHD, 17OHD, and 21OHD. In the perspective application cohort, the steroidogenesis score had a high diagnostic accuracy for all 3 subtypes, 11βOHD (AUC, 0.994; 95% CI, 0.983-1.000), 17OHD (AUC, 0.993; 95% CI, 0.985-1.000), and 21OHD (AUC, 0.979; 95% CI, 0.964-0.994). For nonclassic 21OHD patients, the tool presented with significantly higher sensitivity compared with measurement of basal 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) (0.973 vs 0.840, P = 0.005) and was not inferior to measurement of basal vs stimulated 17OHP (0.973 vs 0.947, P = 0.681).ConclusionsThe steroidogenesis score was biochemically interpretable and showed high accuracy in identifying CAH patients, especially for nonclassic 21OHD patients, thus offering a standardized approach to diagnose and subtype CAH.

17-Hydroxyprogesterone Response to Standard Dose Synacthen Stimulation Test in CYP21A2 Heterozygous Carriers and Non-carriers in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Groups: Meta-analyses

Objective:Standard dose synacthen stimulation test (SDSST) is a gold standard screening test for evaluating adrenal gland function. Despite studies using SDSST to identify heterozygosity in CYP21A2, the reliability of the test for this purpose is still controversial. Therefore, the meta-analyses were performed to determine the differences in 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) responses to standard dose (0.25 mg) SDSST in the diagnosis of CYP21A2 heterozygous individuals, with or without clinical signs of androgen excess disorders.Methods:PubMed and MEDLINE databases were searched. A total of 1215 subjects (heterozygous carriers n=669, mutation-free controls n=546) were included in the meta-analyses.Results:Basal 17-OHP median/mean levels were 4.156 (3.05-10.5)/5.241 (±2.59) nmol/L and 3.90 (2.20-9.74)/4.67 (±2.62) nmol/L in symptomatic heterozygous carriers and symptomatic mutation-free controls, respectively. Stimulated 17-OHP median/mean levels were 17.29 (14.22-37.2)/19.51 (±7.63) nmol/L and 9.27 (7.32-15.9)/10.77 (±3.48) nmol/L in symptomatic heterozygous carriers and symptomatic mutation-free controls, respectively. Basal 17-OHP median/mean levels were 3.21 (2.64-4.78)/3.33 (±0.84) nmol/L and 3.12 (1.82-3.6)/2.83 (±0.71) nmol/L in asymptomatic heterozygous carriers and asymptomatic mutation-free healthy controls, respectively. Stimulated 17-OHP median/mean levels were 14.16 (12.73-16.37)/14.16 (±1.37) nmol/L and 6.26 (4.9-8.23)/6.48 (±1.2) nmol/L in asymptomatic heterozygous carriers and asymptomatic mutation-free healthy controls, respectively. The cut-off levels for stimulated 17-OHP were 10.48 nmol/L and 13.48 nmol/L for asymptomatic heterozygous and symptomatic heterozygous, respectively.Conclusion:The meta-analyses support the idea that stimulated 17-OHP level has potential for use in identifying CYP21A2 carriers. Besides, considering differences in the basal and stimulated 17-OHP levels in symptomatic heterozygous individuals compared to those who were asymptomatic heterozygous could increase the accuracy of the test.

17-Hydroxyprogesterone Response to Standard Dose Synacthene Stımulation Test in CYP21A2 Heterozygous Carriers and Non-Carriers in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Groups: Meta-Analyses

Objective Standard dose synacthene stimulation test (SDSST) is a gold standard screening test for evaluating adrenal gland functions. Despite the presence of the studies to determine heterozygosity of CYP21A2 by the SDSST, the reliability of the test is still controversial. Therefore, the meta-analyses were performed to determine the differences of the 17-hydroxyprogesterone(17-OHP) response to the standard dose(0.25mg) synacthene stimulation in the diagnosis of CYP21A2 heterozygous individuals with or without a clinical sign of androgen excess disorders. Methods PubMed and MEDLINE databases were searched. A total of 1215 subjects (heterozygous carriers n:669, mutation-free controls n:546) were included in the meta-analyses. Results Basal 17-OHP median-mean levels were determined to be 4.156(3.05-10.5)-5.241(2.59)nmol/L and 3.90(2.20-9.74)-4.67(2.62)nmol/L in symptomatic heterozygous carriers and symptomatic mutation-free controls, respectively. Stimulated 17-OHP median-mean levels were determined to be 17.29(14.22-37.2)-19.51(7.63)nmol/L and 9.27(7.32-15.9)-10.77(3.48)nmol/L in symptomatic heterozygous carriers and symptomatic mutation-free controls, respectively. Basal 17-OHP median-mean levels were determined to be 3.21(2.64-4.78)-3.33(±0.84)nmol/L and 3.12(1.82-3.6)-2.83(0.71)nmol/L in asymptomatic heterozygous carriers and asymptomatic mutation-free healthy controls, respectively. Stimulated 17-OHP median-mean levels were found to be 14.16(12.73-16.37)-14.16(1.37) nmol/L and 6.26(4.9-8.23)-6.48(1.2)nmol/L in asymptomatic heterozygous carriers and asymptomatic mutation-free healthy controls, respectively. The cut-off levels for stimulated 17-OHP were 10.48nmol/L and 13.48nmol/L for asymptomatic heterozygous and symptomatic heterozygous, respectively. Conclusion The meta-analyses support the idea that stimulated 17-OHP level has potential to use to determine CYP21A2 carriers. Besides, considering differences of the basal and stimulated 17-OHP levels in symptomatic heterozygous individuals than those who were asymptomatic heterozygous could increase the accuracy of the test.

Establishment of Clinical and Lab Algorithms for the Identification of Carriers of Mutations in CYP21A2 - A Study of 365 Children and Adolescents.

Mutations of CYP21A2 encoding 21-hydroxylase are the most frequent cause of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and are associated either with elevated basal or ACTH-stimulated levels of 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) in blood. The study objective was to identify the most suitable of 12 different test algorithms and appropriate cut-off levels for that test to recognize patients with non-classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCCAH) and carriers of clinically relevant mutations in CYP21A2. Between July 2006 and July 2015 ACTH-tests were conducted in 365 children and adolescents (Age 1-20 y) suspected to have NCCAH. As a reference, results from subsequent gene sequencing of CYP21A2 was used. Inclusion criteria that were used were premature pubarche with accelerated bone age, hyperandrogenism, hirsutism, or menstrual irregularities. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) were plotted. Evaluated test algorithms were composed around 17OHP measurements by radioimmunoassays. The most suitable test was identified by the greatest area under the curve (AUC). Among the 12 tested algorithms, the sum of 30 min and 60 min stimulated 17OHP values (sum17OHPstim) showed the highest AUC of 0.774 for identifying heterozygous and bi-allelic mutations. A cut-off of 10.1 μg/l was advisable. Bi-allelic mutations only were best identified calculating the difference between 30 min and basal 17OHP values (Δ17OHP30). A cut-off of 9.4 μg/l was most effective. Alternatively to the above mentioned cut-offs the difference of 60 min after stimulation to basal 17OHP (Δ17OHP60) can be used for the benefit of a combined test to identify both heterozygotes and bi-allelic patients. There are minimal decreases in sensitivity and specificity compared to an approach that applies two tests. However, it denotes a simpler approach in the clinical routine.

Genotype-phenotype correlations in children and adolescents with nonclassical congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency

BackgroundNonclassical congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency is caused by mutations in the active 21-hydroxylase gene (CYP21A2). The clinical symptoms can vary greatly. To date, no systematic studies have been undertaken in Germany.AimsDescription of the phenotype, evaluation of the diagnostics and genotype-phenotype correlationPatients and methodologyRetrospective analysis of the data of 134 patients (age range 0.1–18.6 years) in a multicentre study covering 10 paediatric endocrinology centres in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. The data was gathered on site from the medical records. Two hundred and thirty-three alleles with a mutation of the CYP21A2 gene were identified in 126 patients. A genotype-phenotype correlation of the mutation findings was undertaken (C1, severe/mild; C2, mild/mild). Individuals with a heterozygous mutation of the CYP21A2 were also included (C3). The data was collected with the approval of the ethics committee of the University Hospital of Erlangen during the period of 2014 and 2015.Results (MW ± SD)One hundred and seventeen out of 134 patients (115 f, 29 m) were symptomatic. The chronological age (CA) at diagnosis was 7.1 ± 4.4 years. The most frequent symptom (73.5%) was premature pubarche. The height-SDS on diagnosis was 0.8 ± 1.3 and the BMI-SDS was 0.8 ± 1.2. Bone age (BA) was ascertained in 82.9% of the symptomatic patients. The difference between BA and CA was 1.9 ± 1.4 years. Basal 17OHP concentrations were 14.5 ± 19.1 ng/ml (18 patients < 2 ng/ml). In total, 58.1% mild and 34.7% severe mutations were found. The most common mutation was p.Val281Leu (39.1%); 65.8% of the patients could be allocated to group C1. No phenotypical differences were found between the 3 mutation groups. The 17OHP levels (basal and after ACTH) in the standard ACTH stimulation test were highest in group C1 and also significantly higher in group C2 as in C3, the ACTH-stimulated cortisol levels (ng/ml) were significantly lower in groups C1 (192.1 ± 62.5) and C2 (218 ± 50) than in C3 (297.3 ± 98.7).ConclusionMost of the patients have symptoms of mild androgenisation. Male patients are underdiagnosed. Diagnostics are not standardised. Differences between the types of mutations are found in the hormone concentrations but not in phenotype. We speculate that further, as yet not clearly defined, factors are responsible for the development of the respective phenotypes.

Steroid Screening Tools Differentiating Nonclassical Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

To analyze the performance of basal 17OH-progesterone (17OHP) levels versus the basal 17OHP/cortisol ratio in nonclassical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCAH) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) differential diagnosis. Basal 17OHP levels >10 ng/mL have been used to confirm NCAH diagnosis without the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) test; however, the optimal cutoff value is a matter of debate. A cross-sectional study was performed at the endocrinology and gynecological endocrinology outpatient clinics of a tertiary hospital. A total of 361 patients with PCOS (age 25.0 ± 5.3 years) and 113 (age 19.0 ± 13.6 years) patients with NCAH were enrolled. Basal and ACTH-17OHP levels were measured by radioimmunoassay, and CYP21A2 molecular analysis was performed to confirm hormonal NCAH diagnosis. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis compared basal 17OHP levels and the 17OHP/cortisol ratio between NCAH and PCOS patients. Basal 17OHP levels were higher in NCAH patients than in those with PCOS (8.85 [4.20-17.30] vs 1.00 [0.70-1.50] ng/mL; P < 0.0001), along with 17OHP/cortisol ratio (0.86 [0.47-1.5]) vs 0.12 [0.07-0.19]; P < 0.0001, respectively). Basal 17OHP levels and the 17OHP/cortisol ratio were strongly correlated in both groups (rho = 0.82; P < 0.0001). Areas under the curves for basal 17OHP levels (0.9528) and the 17OHP/cortisol ratio (0.9455) were not different to discriminate NCAH and PCOS (P > 0.05). Basal 17OHP level >5.4 ng/mL and 17OHP/cortisol ratio >2.90 had 100% specificity to identify NCAH. Basal 17OHP levels >5.4 ng/mL can be used to perform differential diagnoses between NCAH and PCOS, dismissing the ACTH test. The basal 17OHP/cortisol ratio was not superior to basal 17OHP levels in this scenario.

MON-060 P-450 Oxidoreductase Deficiency with Antley Bixler Phenotype: A Novel Mutation

IntroductionWe present first case of 46 XY Disorder of Sex Development (DSD) from India due to P-450 Oxidoreductase Deficiency with Novel variant (p.Ala541Thr) in a heterozygous state.Case Discussion6 months old boy presented with ambiguous genitalia since birth. No history of neonatal crisis, failure to thrive and pigmentation of skin, maternal virilisation or drug ingestion during pregnancy. On examination: weight 6.2 Kg (3rd centile), height 64 cm (3rd centile), MPH-170 (25-50th centile), head circumference 38 cm (−2.7 SD), vitals stable, trigonocephaly with fused anterior and posterior fontanelle, prominent pointed forehead, midfacial hypoplasia, up slanting eyes, hypertelorism and low set ears were present. Genitalia: 1.5 cm phallus like structure with foreskin, chordee, single perineal opening in form of peno-scrotal hypospadias, bifid scrotum with poor rugosity and poor pigmentation and both gonads (1 ml) were palpable in labio-scrotal fold with external masculinization score (EMS), 6/12 and Prader stage 4.Investigations showed normal electrolytes and blood sugar, High basal ACTH, post stimulation cortisol 14mcg/dl, Basal 17-OHP was 8.6 ng/ml and post stimulation 12ng/ml, with low DHEAS 36.4 mcg/dl and androstenedione 0.42 ng/ml, LH 16.09 mIU/ml (elevated), FSH 2.97 mIU/ml (normal) and low Testosterone for his age. T/DHT 9.6 (normal<10) and Testosterone /Androstenedione ratio 0.95 (normal >0.8). Abdominal and Pelvic imaging showed normal adrenal glands and absent female internal genitalia, bilateral testis in labio-scrotal fold (right testis-6x6.5x11 mm, left testis-6.6x7x10 mm), corpora cavernosa and bifid scrotum. NCCT Head showed metopic craniosynostosis with trigonocephaly and hypotelorism. Skeletal survey showed bowing of femora. 20 cell Karyotype of peripheral blood lymphocyte was 46 XY. NGS was done of the POR gene, which revealed a heterozygous missense variation in exon 13 of the POR gene variant (p.Ala541Thr) which has not been reported yet.The patient was initiated hydrocortisone, fludrocortisone, DHT gel and corrective surgery is planned.Clinical learningAlthough in PORD classically the inheritance is generally autosomal recessive, but manifesting heterozygotes are not uncommon1. This case also shows the value of Next gen sequencing and the role it can play in DSD1. Scott RR, Gomes LG, Huang N, Van Vliet G, Miller WL. Apparent manifesting heterozygosity in P450 oxidoreductase deficiency and its effect on coexisting 21-hydroxylase deficiency. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2007;92:2318–2322

SAT-LB067 Mutational Spectrum Determines Subtle Adrenal Biosynthetic Defect in Non-Classical Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Due to 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency

There is a clinical spectrum of non-classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency (NC-CAH). In addition, CYP21A2 gene mutations analysis present in homozygosis or as compound heterozygosis. Herein we hypothesize that allele combination associates with specific biochemical profiles. Objectives: To evaluate the relationship between the genotype and biochemical profiles in the diagnosis of NC-CAH. Patients and Methods: Clinical, hormonal and molecular data at diagnosis of 63 patients (78% female; 43 children, 20 adults) with NC-CAH followed from 1989 to 2019 were analyzed. Results: At the diagnosis, most children (75% of girls and 71% of boys), presented with premature pubarche. Clitoromegaly was present in 10% of the girls. Among adult patients, hirsutism (75%), menstrual abnormalities (50%), premature pubarche (42%), acne (35%) and clitoromegaly (10%) were observed. Basal and ACTH-stimulated 17OHP mean levels (ng/dL) were 1,329 ± 1,232 (97-5,560) and 4,364 ± 2,340 (1,115-10,648), respectively. The most frequent mutation was p.V281L (60% of alleles) being 31% in homozygosis. Fifty percent of the patients were compound heterozygotes for one classic (C) and one non-classical mutation (NC). C alleles were p.I172N, IVS2-13A/C>G, Δ8, CL6, p.Q318X, p.R356W and LGC. Basal and ACTH-stimulated 17OHP values were higher in patients carrying the C/NC genotypes compared to NC/NC genotypes (1,768±1,333 vs 835±923; p=0.0002 and 5,392±498 vs 3,551±400 ng/dl; p=0.005, respectively). Similarly, basal and ACTH-stimulated 17OHP to cortisol ratios were higher in patients carrying the C/NC compared to NC/NC genotypes (134 ±76 vs 53±34; p=0.0003 and 309±48 vs 199±27; p=0.04, respectively). Moreover, ROC curve analyses showed that the basal and ACTH-stimulated 17OHP levels of 610 and 3,913 ng/dl were the best cutoffs to identify NC-CAH patients carrying compound heterozygosis with C alleles. According to the severity of the mutation, basal 17OHP (ng/dL) was progressively higher p.V281L/p.V281L vs p.V281L/IVS2-13A/C>G (927 vs 3,094; p<0.01) and p.V281L/p.I172N vs p.V281L/IVS2-13A/C>G (1,011 vs 3,094; p<0.05). This was also observed in ACTH-stimulated 17OHP between p.V281L/p.V281L vs p.V281L/p.R356W (3,265 vs 5,817; p<0.01). There was a trend to early appearance of premature pubarche (5.7±1.8 vs 6.7±1.6 years; p=0.07) in C/NC genotype group compared to NC/NC. There were no differences in age, height, weight, androstenedione, DHEAS and testosterone levels between the C/NC and NC/NC groups at diagnosis. Conclusion: The molecular variability in NC-CAH associates with graded severities of adrenal biosynthetic defect. Unless otherwise noted, all abstracts presented at ENDO are embargoed until the date and time of presentation. For oral presentations, the abstracts are embargoed until the session begins. s presented at a news conference are embargoed until the date and time of the news conference. The Endocrine Society reserves the right to lift the embargo on specific abstracts that are selected for promotion prior to or during ENDO.

SAT-296 Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Presenting as Central Precocious Puberty

Background: Sometimes peripheral precocious puberty (PPP) is the underlying cause of central precocious puberty (CPP) and is called as secondary CPP. In most of the secondary CPP, the role of the PPP is evident at diagnosis of CPP. Here we report a case of secondary CPP who was initially misdiagnosed as idiopathic CPP. Case presentation A-6.25-years-old boy, born of a third degree consanguineous consummation, presented with appearance of pubic hair and enlargement of phallus since the age of 4 years. He has history of mild global developmental delay, predominantly affecting language milestones. There was no family history of early puberty, sibling deaths or ambiguous genitalia. His height was 113 cm (-0.54 SDS ) and mid-parental height was 176.5 (+0.31 SD), Sexual maturity rating was P3, G3 (stretched phallic length: 6 cm) and bilateral testes measuring 5 cc each. He had multiple large café-au-lait spots over the lower extremities with irregular borders. Bone age was 9.5 years. Serum testosterone was elevated (190.1 ng/dl) with LH of 0.31 mIU/ml and FSH of 1.25 mIU/ml. Thyroid function was normal (TSH: 1.11 µIU/ml, FT4: 1.56 ng/dl). Leuprolide stimulation was done which suggested central precocious puberty (peak LH: 10.61mIU/ml, peak FSH: 3.75 mIU/ml). MRI of the pituitary hypothalamic area was normal. He was diagnosed to have idiopathic CPP and was initiated on leuprodile depot preparation 3.75 mg intramuscularly once a month. After 6 months, he had grown 5 cm (and basal serum testosterone was still elevated (185.3 ng/dl), LH: <0.01 mIU/ml). Adequate LH suppression was also confirmed with suppressed LH (peak LH: 0.95 mIU/ml) after leuprolide depot stimulation. Hence, he was suspected to have secondary CPP and was evaluated for the cause. Serum 8:00 am cortisol was 7.48 µg/dl and β-hCG was undetectable. Basal 17OHP (16.79 ng/ml) and ACTH stimulated 17OHP (54 ng/ml) were elevated. Hence, a diagnosis of simple virilising CAH with secondary CPP was done. Patient was started on oral hydrocortisone (10 mg/m2/day) and shifted to leuprodile depot preparation 11.25 mg Q12 weekly. After 3 months basal serum testosterone was 45 ng/ml and LH was < 0.01 mIU/ml. Conclusion: In a patient with hormonal profile suggestive of CPP, a disproportionately smaller testes for a given serum testosterone should suggest a secondary cause for CPP. In patients treated with GnRH agonist for CPP, persistent growth acceleration and/or persistently elevated sex steroid but well-suppressed LH should also suggest a secondary cause for CPP.

Basal levels of 17-hydroxyprogesterone can distinguish children with isolated precocious pubarche.

Basal levels of androgens, in particular 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP), are widely debated as predictors of non-classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCCAH) among patients with precocious pubarche (PP). Many authors have recommended the use of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test in children with PP. The aim of our study was to identify clinical and biochemical predictors of NCCAH in children with PP. We conducted a prospective study of 92 patients with PP undergoing an ACTH stimulation test. We tested the association of basal clinical and biochemical parameters with NCCAH diagnosis. Patients were suspected to have NCCAH if their stimulated 17OHP plasma levels were >10 ng/mL. In these patients, the diagnosis was confirmed by genetic test. Seven (7.6%) patients resulted having NCCAH. The best basal biochemical predictor for NCCAH was 17OHP level >2 ng/mL. In fact, a basal 17OHP level >2 ng/mL had 100% (95% confidence interval (CI), 59.04-100) sensitivity and 93% (95% CI, 85.3-97.37) specificity. The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve for 17OHP was 0.99 (95% CI, 0.98-1.007). Basal 17OHP cut-off of 2 ng/mL was very effective in predicting NCCAH among our patients with PP. Assay-specific cut-off would probably be the best strategy to avoid unnecessary ACTH test.

The prevalence of non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency in Russian women with hyperandrogenism

The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCAH) due to 21-hydroxylase (21-OH) deficiency among hyperandrogenic women in a Russian population and to evaluate diagnostic value of basal serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) level to diagnose this disease. A total of 800 consecutive Caucasian women presenting with elevation of at least one serum androgen and/or manifestation of one of the clinical androgenic symptoms were prospectively recruited and evaluated by basal 17-OHP. The diagnosis of NCAH due to 21-OH deficiency was considered in patients when basal level exceeded 5.0 nmol/L and CYP21A2 gene mutation analysis was performed in this case. Eight (1.0%) of the patients had NCAH due to 21-OH deficiency confirmed by genotyping. These women had a V281L mutation: five homozygous and three compound heterozygous with genotypes V281L/P453S, V281L/I2splice and V281L/I2splice. One patient was diagnosed with NCAH (genotype V281L/I2splice) before the study and was excluded from the analysis. Thus, the unbiased prevalence of NCAH was 0.9%. The 17-OHP basal level ranges from 16.8 to 17.7 nmol/L predicted NCAH with 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity.

Non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency revisited: an update with a special focus on adolescent and adult women.

Non-classic congenital hyperplasia (NCAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency is a common autosomal recessive disorder characterized by androgen excess. We conducted a systematic review and critical assessment of the available evidence pertaining to the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of NCAH. A meta-analysis of epidemiological data was also performed. Peer-reviewed studies evaluating NCAH published up to October 2016 were reviewed. Multiple databases were searched including MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, ERIC, EBSCO, dissertation abstracts, and current contents. The worldwide prevalence of NCAH amongst women presenting with signs and symptoms of androgen excess is 4.2% (95% confidence interval: 3.2-5.4%). The clinical consequences of NCAH expand from infancy, i.e. accelerated growth, to adolescence and adulthood, i.e. premature pubarche, cutaneous symptoms and oligo-ovulation in a polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-like clinical picture. The diagnosis of NCAH relies on serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) concentrations. A basal 17-OHP concentration ≥2 ng/ml (6 nmol/l) should be used for screening if more appropriate in-house cut-off values are not available. Definitive diagnosis requires a 17-OHP concentration ≥10 ng/ml (30 nmol/l), either basally or after cosyntropin-stimulation. Molecular genetic analysis of the CYP21A2 gene, which is responsible for 21-hydroxylase activity, may be used for confirmation purposes and should be offered to all patients with NCAH along with genetic counseling because these patients frequently carry alleles that may result in classic CAH, the more severe form of the disease, in their progeny. Treatment must be individualized. Glucocorticoid replacement therapy may benefit pediatric patients with accelerated growth or advanced bone age or adult women seeking fertility, whereas adequate control of menstrual irregularity, hirsutism and other cutaneous symptoms is best served by the use of oral contraceptive pills and/or anti-androgens. Some women may need ovulation induction or assisted reproductive technology to achieve pregnancy. Patients with NCAH have a higher risk of miscarriage and may benefit from glucocorticoid treatment during pregnancy. Evidence-based diagnostic and treatment strategies are essential for the proper management of women with NCAH, especially considering that these patients may need different therapeutic strategies at different stages during their follow-up and that appropriate genetic counseling may prevent the occurrence of CAH in their children.

Test with 5 mcg ACTH for Diagnosis of Non-classic Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

Background: Short test with 250 mcg corticotropin (Tetracosactide acetate, a substance of first 24 amino acids from 39-acid chain of endogenous ACTH) is a diagnostic standard of non-classic form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). However, it is well known that morning ACTH levels in healthy people fluctuate between 10 and 60 pg/ml, and peak cortisol levels can be achieved with 1-24 ACTH dose of 1 mcg or 5 mcg. Objective: To study the sensitivity and specificity of the test with 5 mcg ACTH to diagnose non-classic form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCAN). Materials and Methods: During from 2006 to 2011, we screened 435 women aged from 16 to 35 (25 (21; 29) years) for CAH after exclusion of neoplastic hyperandrogenism. Protocol of low-dose (5 mcg) and standard (250 mcg) 1-24 ACTH tests: Blood sampling for basal 17-OHP and cortisol levels; blood sampling for 17-OHP and cortisol at 30 and 60 minutes after 5 mcg or 250 mcg 1-24 ACTH stimulation. Molecular genetic analysis for most prevalent CYP21 mutations was performed using allele specific polymerase chain reaction. Results: Diagnosis of non-classic CAH with 21-hydroxylase deficiency was proved in 5.3% (23/435) of patients. Conclusion: Low dose test with Tetracosactide 5 mcg can identify 21-hydroxylase deficiency in patients with stimulated 17-OHP concentrations over 14 ng/ml. Test with Tetracosactide 5 mcg had sensitivity of 72.7% and specificity of 100% with positive prognostic value (+PV) of 100%, and negative prognostic value (-PV) of 89.3%.