Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method for screening of non-classical steroid 21-hydroxylase deficiency

Morning salivary 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) determination is a useful method to diagnose non-classical 21-hydroxylase deficiency (NC 21-OHD). In ethnic groups with high frequency of NC 21-OHD, mass screening is thought to be necessary. A pilot screening test for NC 21-OHD was performed by measuring morning salivary 17-OHP by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Two individuals were found NC 21-OHD from 230 subjects. Results of this ELISA were well correlated with those of established radioimmunoassay. ELISA can be performed in any laboratory because of non-radioactivity and the procedure is very easy by the use of a microplate. This ELISA is suitable for large scale population studies. We conclude that morning salivary 17-OHP determination by ELISA is a useful method for NC 21-OHD screening test.