Skip to content

Alpha-Cortolone, 24-Hour Urine — Calculated Z-Score

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

Measures alpha-cortolone in urine collected over 24 hours and reports the result as a calculated z-score for comparison with laboratory reference data.

Quick summary

["This test measures a steroid metabolite in a 24-hour urine collection and expresses it as a standardized z-score."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
95588-0
Short code
A-cortolone 24h Z-score Ur
Synonyms
A-cortolone 24h Z-score Ur
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
20
Ref high
400
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82670
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 alpha-cortolone, a corticosteroid-related substance, in urine collected for 24 hours. The laboratory converts the measured amount into a z-score, which shows how far the result is above or below the laboratory's reference value.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to evaluate adrenal steroid production or metabolism. It is usually interpreted along with symptoms, medical history, medication use, and other hormone tests.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for a full 24-hour period in the container provided by the laboratory. The collection is then submitted for measurement, and the reported result is expressed as a calculated z-score.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's instructions for the start and end times of the 24-hour collection and record any missed urine. Tell your clinician about corticosteroids or other hormone medicines; do not stop prescribed medication unless instructed.

Reference range

Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/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

24-Hour Urine Alpha-Cortolone Z-Score

Frequently asked questions

What does a z-score mean?
A z-score expresses how many standard deviations a result is above or below the reference mean. It provides a standardized way to compare the result with the laboratory's reference population.
Why is a 24-hour urine collection needed?
Collecting all urine for 24 hours gives a more representative measurement of how much alpha-cortolone your body excretes. An incomplete or incorrectly timed collection can make the result less reliable.
Does an abnormal result diagnose an adrenal disorder?
No. An abnormal z-score may point to a change in adrenal steroid production or metabolism, but symptoms, medications, and other laboratory results must also be considered.
  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