Skip to content

5-Alpha-Tetrahydrocortisol, 24-Hour Urine — Mass Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

Measures 5-alpha-tetrahydrocortisol, a cortisol breakdown product, in urine collected over 24 hours to help evaluate adrenal steroid production.

Quick summary

["This 24-hour urine test can help identify abnormalities in adrenal cortisol metabolism when interpreted with other hormone tests."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
55826-2
Short code
5-A THF 24h Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
5-A THF 24h Ur-mCnc
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 test measures 5-alpha-tetrahydrocortisol, also called 5α-THF or allo-tetrahydrocortisol, in a 24-hour urine collection. It is a metabolite formed when the body breaks down cortisol.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test when symptoms suggest an adrenal hormone disorder or excess cortisol activity. It can provide information about cortisol metabolism and may be used alongside other adrenal hormone measurements.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for exactly 24 hours in the container provided by the laboratory. The laboratory then measures the amount of 5-alpha-tetrahydrocortisol in the collected urine.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions, including when to start and stop. Record the start and finish times, save every urine sample during the period, and refrigerate the container if instructed. Mention any missed samples to the laboratory.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated result may occur with excess adrenal steroid production or certain inherited adrenal enzyme disorders, including 11-beta-hydroxylase deficiency. The result is not diagnostic by itself and must be interpreted with the urine collection details and other adrenal hormone tests.

Short name

5-Alpha-Tetrahydrocortisol (24-Hour Urine)

Frequently asked questions

Why is a 24-hour urine collection needed?
It measures hormone metabolite production over a full day and reduces the effect of short-term fluctuations in hormone levels. Complete collection is important for accurate results.
Does an abnormal result mean I definitely have an adrenal disorder?
No. Levels can be affected by adrenal hormone disorders, medications, and other clinical factors, so your clinician will interpret this test with your symptoms and additional laboratory results.
What if I miss part of the urine collection?
Tell the laboratory or your clinician because an incomplete collection may make the result less reliable. Depending on the circumstances, the test may need 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy