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16-Alpha-Hydroxypregnenolone and 16-Alpha-Hydroxydehydroepiandrosterone, Urine

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

A urine test measuring two steroid metabolites used to help evaluate adrenal hormone production and certain inherited steroid-synthesis disorders.

Quick summary

["This test can help identify abnormal adrenal steroid production, but results must be interpreted with other findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44279-8
Short code
16A OH-Preg/16A OH-DHEA Ur
Synonyms
16A OH-Preg/16A OH-DHEA 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?

This urine test measures 16-alpha-hydroxypregnenolone (16α-OHP) and 16-alpha-hydroxydehydroepiandrosterone (16α-OHDHEA). These are metabolites formed during the production of steroid hormones by the adrenal glands.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be ordered to help evaluate certain inherited disorders of adrenal steroid production, particularly in newborns or children with atypical genital development, early puberty, or other signs of hormonal imbalance.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and the laboratory measures the amounts of 16α-OHP and 16α-OHDHEA. The results are compared with age-appropriate laboratory reference data and interpreted alongside other hormone tests and clinical findings.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special diet or fasting is usually required. Follow the collection instructions provided by the clinician or laboratory, and do not stop medicines without medical guidance because some can affect hormone production.

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

Urinary 16α-OHP and 16α-OHDHEA

Frequently asked questions

What does this urine test measure?
It measures 16α-hydroxypregnenolone and 16α-hydroxydehydroepiandrosterone, two metabolites produced during adrenal steroid synthesis.
What conditions can this test help evaluate?
It can help evaluate certain inherited disorders that affect adrenal hormone production, especially when a newborn or child has signs of atypical sexual development or early puberty.
Do abnormal results confirm a diagnosis?
No. Results must be interpreted with age, symptoms, other hormone tests, and other medical findings because abnormal levels can have several causes.
  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