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5-Alpha-Tetrahydrocortisol, Urine — Substance Concentration

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

Measures 5α-tetrahydrocortisol, a urinary metabolite of cortisol, to help evaluate adrenal steroid production and metabolism.

Quick summary

["This urine test helps identify abnormalities in cortisol metabolism, including some forms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73863-3
Short code
5-A THF Ur-sCnc
Synonyms
5-A THF Ur-sCnc
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 5α-tetrahydrocortisol, also called 5α-THF, in urine. It is a breakdown product of cortisol, a hormone made by the adrenal glands.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to evaluate adrenal hormone production, particularly when symptoms or other laboratory results suggest congenital adrenal hyperplasia, an inherited condition that affects cortisol production.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is analyzed in the laboratory to determine the amount of 5α-tetrahydrocortisol. The result may be expressed as a concentration or, for a 24-hour collection, as the total amount excreted over the collection period.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions carefully. If a 24-hour urine collection is required, collect all urine for the specified period and record the collection times. Do not stop prescribed medicines unless your clinician instructs you to do so.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

5α-Tetrahydrocortisol (urine)

Frequently asked questions

What does 5α-tetrahydrocortisol measure?
It measures the amount of a cortisol breakdown product in urine, providing information about adrenal steroid production and metabolism.
Is this the same as a urine cortisol test?
No. Urine cortisol measures the active hormone, while this test measures a specific metabolite formed when cortisol is processed.
Does the test require a 24-hour urine collection?
It depends on the laboratory and the reason for testing. If a 24-hour collection is ordered, all urine during the specified period must be collected for an accurate result.
  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