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16-Alpha-Hydroxydehydroepiandrosterone (16α-OH-DHEA), 24-Hour Urine — Rate

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

Measures the amount of 16α-OH-DHEA excreted over 24 hours. This test can help evaluate adrenal androgen production when symptoms suggest excess androgen activity.

Quick summary

["This 24-hour urine test measures a hormone metabolite that can help assess adrenal androgen production."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
95563-3
Short code
16A OH-DHEA 24h Ur-mRate
Synonyms
16A OH-DHEA 24h Ur-mRate
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
135
Ref high
980
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82626
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

16α-hydroxydehydroepiandrosterone, or 16α-OH-DHEA, is a hormone produced in the adrenal glands. This test measures the amount of this substance passed in urine over 24 hours.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order it when there are signs of excess androgen activity, such as unwanted hair growth, acne, menstrual changes, or other hormonal symptoms. It can provide information about adrenal hormone production.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine produced during a full 24-hour period in the container provided by the laboratory. The urine is then tested to calculate the amount of 16α-OH-DHEA excreted per unit of time.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's urine collection instructions carefully and record the collection start and end times. Tell your clinician about medicines and supplements you use, because some can affect hormone measurements; do not stop them unless advised.

Reference range

NCBI: DHEA-S Male 135-980 µg/dL; Female 30-260 µg/dLN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine 16α-OH-DHEA

Frequently asked questions

Why is urine collected for 24 hours?
A 24-hour collection measures the total amount of a substance released by the body during a full day. This can provide a more representative result than a single urine sample.
Does this test diagnose a specific condition?
No single result usually establishes a diagnosis. Your clinician will interpret the result with your symptoms, examination, and other laboratory tests.
What if the urine collection is missed or incomplete?
An incomplete collection can make the result less reliable. Contact the laboratory or your clinician for instructions on whether the collection needs to be repeated.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy