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5-Alpha-Tetrahydrocortisol (5a-THF), 24-Hour Urine — Mass Concentration

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

A 24-hour urine test that measures 5a-tetrahydrocortisol, a metabolite formed during cortisol metabolism.

Quick summary

["This test helps evaluate adrenal steroid metabolism but is interpreted alongside symptoms and other hormone results."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57617-3
Short code
5-A THF Pre Dex 24h Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
5-A THF Pre Dex 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 the amount of 5a-tetrahydrocortisol (5a-THF) in urine collected for 24 hours. It is a metabolite formed as the body breaks down cortisol.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when evaluating unusual hormone symptoms, suspected adrenal or steroid-metabolism disorders, or the body's response to steroid treatment. It is usually interpreted with other adrenal hormone tests.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for a full 24-hour period in a labeled container provided by the laboratory. The laboratory then measures the 5a-THF concentration and accounts for the total amount and volume collected.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions and record the start and finish times. Refrigerate the container if instructed, note any urine that was missed, and tell your clinician about medicines, supplements, or steroid use.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urinary 5a-THF

Frequently asked questions

Why is a 24-hour urine collection needed?
Steroid metabolites are released throughout the day, so collecting all urine for 24 hours gives a more representative measure than a single urine sample.
What if I miss part of the urine collection?
Tell the laboratory or your clinician because a missed collection can make the result less accurate. Do not start a new collection without instructions from the laboratory.
Does an abnormal result mean I have an adrenal disorder?
Not by itself. Results can also be affected by medications, supplements, and collection completeness, so your clinician will interpret them with other tests and your symptoms.
  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