17ketone

17-ketosteroids, often abbreviated as 17-KS, are a group of steroid hormones characterized by a ketone group at the 17th carbon position. These compounds are primarily metabolites of androgens, such as testosterone and androstenedione, and adrenal androgens, like dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Their presence in the body is an indicator of adrenal and gonadal steroid production.

The major 17-ketosteroids found in urine include dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), androsterone, and etiocholanolone. DHEA-S is the most abundant circulating 17-KS and is largely derived from the adrenal cortex. Androsterone and etiocholanolone are formed in the liver and target tissues from androgens.

Measurement of urinary 17-ketosteroids has historically been used as a diagnostic tool to assess androgen production and adrenal function. Elevated levels can suggest conditions like adrenal hyperplasia or adrenal tumors, while decreased levels might indicate adrenal insufficiency or hypogonadism. However, with the advent of more specific assays for individual hormones like testosterone, DHEA, and cortisol, the routine measurement of total 17-ketosteroids has become less common in clinical practice for many diagnostic purposes. Despite this, understanding 17-ketosteroids remains important in endocrinology and steroid metabolism research.