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16-Alpha-Hydroxy-DHEA/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

This urine test measures 16-alpha-hydroxy-DHEA relative to creatinine, helping evaluate adrenal steroid production and metabolism.

Quick summary

["The result may help assess adrenal steroid activity, but it must be interpreted with symptoms, other hormone tests, and clinical context."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44278-0
Short code
16A OH-DHEA/Creat Ur
Synonyms
16A OH-DHEA/Creat Ur
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?

16-alpha-hydroxy-DHEA (16-OH-DHEA) is a form of the adrenal hormone dehydroepiandrosterone. This test compares urinary 16-OH-DHEA with urinary creatinine, which helps account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test as part of an evaluation of adrenal function, androgen production, or suspected hormonal disorders. It may also be used to follow certain endocrine conditions or treatments.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected according to the laboratory's instructions. The laboratory measures 16-OH-DHEA and creatinine and may calculate their ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's urine-collection instructions carefully, including any timing or collection-period requirements. Fasting is generally not required unless your clinician specifically requests it, and medications or supplements should be reported.

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

Urine 16-OH-DHEA/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does 16-OH-DHEA measure?
It measures 16-alpha-hydroxy-dehydroepiandrosterone, a metabolite related to the adrenal hormone DHEA. The result reflects adrenal steroid production and metabolism.
Why is creatinine included?
Creatinine is used to adjust the hormone measurement for how concentrated the urine is. This makes values from samples with different urine concentrations easier to compare.
Does an abnormal result diagnose a hormone disorder?
No. An abnormal result may prompt further testing, but your clinician must interpret it with your symptoms, medical history, medications, and other laboratory results.
  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