Title Page
What is CAH?
Normal Adrenal Function
Adrenal Function & 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency
CAH Without Treatment
CAH With Treatment
Specifics of Endocrine Treatment
Monitoring Treatment
Surgical Treatment for Female Patients
Psychological Treatment
Genetics of CAH
Other Sources of Information
Glossary of Terms

VI. Monitoring Treatment

Because of large individual variation in cortisol secretion, it is important to monitor treatment very carefully. The means to determine an appropriate replacement dose includes measurement of plasma 17-hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione concentrations, or of the urinary excretion of pregnanetriol (the major metabolite of 17-hydroxyprogesterone) and 17-ketosteroids (the metabolites of androgens). It is also important to follow growth (Bone Age and Height Age) in order to monitor the anabolic effects of adrenal androgens.

Finally, it is necessary to check serum electrolytes frequently to assure normal levels of sodium, potassium and CO₂. This is particularly important for salt-losers.