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Cortolone and Creatinine, Urine — Ratio

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

This urine test measures cortolone, an adrenal steroid metabolite, relative to creatinine to help evaluate adrenal steroid production.

Quick summary

["The result can help identify abnormal adrenal steroid production when interpreted with your symptoms and other hormone tests."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
81806-2
Short code
A-cortolone/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
A-cortolone/Creat Ur-sRto
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 cortolone, a metabolite of adrenal corticosteroid hormones, in urine. The result is also compared with the amount of creatinine in the same urine sample.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test as part of an evaluation of adrenal hormone production, particularly when symptoms suggest excess or abnormal steroid activity. It is usually interpreted with other adrenal hormone and clinical findings.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is tested in the laboratory to determine the cortolone and creatinine amounts. Dividing or comparing these measurements provides a ratio that is less affected by how concentrated the urine is.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory, including whether a single urine sample or a timed collection is required. If a 24-hour collection is ordered, collect all urine for the full period and store it as instructed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine cortolone-to-creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does a urine cortolone-to-creatinine ratio measure?
It compares the amount of cortolone in urine with the amount of creatinine in the same sample. Creatinine helps account for differences in urine concentration.
Does this test by itself diagnose an adrenal disorder?
No. It is usually one part of a broader evaluation and must be interpreted with symptoms, medication use, and other hormone test results.
Why might I need to collect all urine for a full day?
If a 24-hour collection is requested, it measures hormone excretion over the entire period rather than at one time. Missing or spilled urine can make the result less reliable.
  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