CPT® Code 84135

Pregnanediol is a metabolite that results from the breakdown of progesterone, a hormone that plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. The measurement of pregnanediol in urine serves as an important indicator of progesterone levels within the body. This test is particularly useful for individuals monitoring their ovulation cycles, as it can be performed at home to detect ovulation. Various factors can influence the levels of pregnanediol in the urine. For instance, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) can lead to an increase in pregnanediol levels, while the use of oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapies may result in decreased levels. Additionally, elevated pregnanediol levels can be associated with certain medical conditions, such as ovarian cysts, tumors, adrenocortical hyperplasia, and hyperadrenocorticism. Conversely, decreased levels of pregnanediol may indicate conditions such as amenorrhea, ovarian failure, fetal death, and preeclampsia. Understanding these variations is essential for healthcare professionals when interpreting test results and assessing hormonal health.