## Core Concept
17-hydroxylase deficiency is a rare genetic disorder affecting the production of certain hormones in the adrenal glands. This enzyme is crucial for the synthesis of cortisol, androgens, and estrogens from pregnenolone and progesterone. A deficiency leads to an imbalance in the production of various steroids.

## Why the Correct Answer is Right
The correct answer, **D. Mineralocorticoids**, is right because 17-hydroxylase deficiency results in the decreased production of cortisol and sex hormones (androgens and estrogens) but increased production of mineralocorticoids. This is due to the shunting of precursors towards the mineralocorticoid pathway, leading to an overproduction of mineralocorticoids like aldosterone.

## Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect
- **Option A:** is incorrect because the deficiency actually leads to decreased production of androgens.
- **Option B:** is incorrect as the production of glucocorticoids (like cortisol) is decreased, not increased.
- **Option C:** is incorrect because, similar to androgens, the production of estrogens is also decreased due to the lack of 17-hydroxylase activity.

## Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact
A key clinical feature of 17-hydroxylase deficiency is hypertension due to the excessive production of mineralocorticoids, which cause sodium retention and potassium loss. Patients may also present with hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis, and sexual infantilism or delayed puberty due to the deficiency of sex hormones.

## Correct Answer: D. Mineralocorticoids