Pregnenolone Test

This test measures the amount of Pregnenolone in the blood. 

Pregnenolone is a natural hormone produced by the adrenal gland. This hormone is also made from cholesterol, and is a key component in the production of testosterone, progesterone, cortisol, estrogen, and other main-functioning hormones. It has many health benefits, such as managing stress-related fatigue and enhancing memory. It is also a powerful neuro-steroid that promotes learning as well.

Why Test For Pregnenolone?

For your body to produce enough steroid hormones, the adrenal glands convert cholesterol into pregnenolone; which aids in the production of steriod hormones that;

• Help metabolism 
• Maintaining blood pressure 
• Regulating the immune system
• Control blood volume
• Maintain normal sodium and potassium levels
• Control development and maintenance of secondary sexual characteristics in men and women

Pregnenolone is typically tested to aid in diagnosing a condition known as Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH). CAH is a group of disorders in which the body is deficient in one or more of the enzymes required to produce steroid hormones. The resulting hormone imbalances can lead to a salt-wasting crisis (inappropriate sodium excretion in the urine) and incorrect gender assignment. Since pregnenolone is the precursor for the proper production of steroid hormones, getting it tested is essential.

Pregnenolone Levels 

Low Pregnenolone

Pregnenolone levels naturally decrease as a person ages. A pregnenolone deficiency may lead to deficiencies in other critical hormones as well.  

Symptoms can include;

• Decreased sex drive
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Impaired memory
• Bone density loss
• Decreased muscle mass

High Pregnenolone

High pregnenolone levels could be due to congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) which causes a deficiency or dysfunction in the enzymes required to convert pregnenolone into steroid hormones. 

This can cause; 

• Cortisol deficiency 
• Overabundance of male hormones (androgens)   

Symptoms can include;

• High blood pressure
• Extreme loss of fluids
• Sex organs that are not clearly defined
• Delayed puberty
• Acne/Oily skin