Method for Simultaneous Estimation of Pregnane-3 , 17 , 20 -Triol and Pregnane-3 , 17 , 20 -Triol-11-One in Urine

Abstract

A test is described for simultaneous estimation of urinary pregnane-3[alpha], 17[alpha], 20[alpha]-triol and pregnane-3[alpha], 17[alpha], 20[alpha]-triol-11-one. After liberation from their conjugates by [beta]-glucuronidase hydrolysis and extraction of the free compounds from urine, they are distinguished and estimated by paper chromatography and by the specific fluorescent colors which they develop on heating the paper strips, moistened with 70% phosphoric acid, for 10 minutes at 87[degree]. Increased excretion of pregnane-3[alpha], 17[alpha], 20[alpha]-triol was observed both in patients with adrenal hyperplasia and with adrenal tumors. Pregnane-3[alpha], 17[alpha], 20[alpha]-triol-11-one has been detected so far only in urine of patients with adrenal hyperplasia. Based on this differential excretion distinction between adrenal tumors and adrenal hyperplasia seems to be possible.