A newborn presents with ambiguous genitalia, salt wasting, and hypotension. Laboratory tests show elevated 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels. Which enzyme deficiency is most likely responsible for this condition?

✓ Correct Answer: Option A

21-hydroxylase deficiency is the most common cause of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. It leads to impaired cortisol and aldosterone synthesis (causing salt wasting) and accumulation of androgens (causing virilization/ambiguous genitalia in females).