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6-Alpha-Hydroxytestosterone, 24-Hour Urine — Mass Rate

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

A 24-hour urine test measuring the excretion rate of 6-alpha-hydroxytestosterone, a steroid metabolite used to assess adrenal androgen production.

Quick summary

["This test measures urinary 6-alpha-hydroxytestosterone to help evaluate adrenal steroid production."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57598-5
Short code
6A-OH-THS pre hi Dex 24h Ur-mRate
Synonyms
6A-OH-THS pre hi Dex 24h Ur-mRate
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 6-alpha-hydroxytestosterone, a steroid metabolite, in urine collected over 24 hours. The result is reported as a mass rate, which describes how much is excreted over time.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used to evaluate adrenal hormone production when there is concern for excess androgen activity, virilization, early puberty, or certain forms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

How is the test performed?

Urine is collected into a designated container for a full 24-hour period. The laboratory then measures 6-alpha-hydroxytestosterone and calculates the amount excreted per unit of time.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions and record the start and finish times. Keep the container closed and refrigerate it if instructed; mention any corticosteroid, hormonal, or other medicines you take because they may affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated result may indicate increased adrenal androgen production, including some forms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia or other causes of adrenal steroid excess. A lower result can reflect reduced steroid production, although this test is interpreted alongside symptoms, other hormone tests, and the laboratory's reference interval.

Short name

24-Hour Urine 6-Alpha-Hydroxytestosterone

Frequently asked questions

Why is urine collected for 24 hours?
Hormone production varies throughout the day. Collecting all urine for 24 hours provides a more representative measurement than a single urine sample.
Do I need to stop taking medicines before this test?
Do not stop medicines on your own. Tell your clinician and laboratory about corticosteroids, hormonal medicines, and other medications because they can influence steroid measurements.
Does an abnormal result diagnose a specific condition?
No. The result must be interpreted with medical history, physical findings, and other hormone tests because urinary steroid levels can also be affected by medications and temporary changes in hormone production.
  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