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Androst24hurmrate

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

This test measures the level of androstenedione, a hormone that helps produce testosterone and estrogen, in your urine collected over 24 hours.

Quick summary

{"Androstenedione is a hormone made by your adrenal glands, ovaries, and testes","This test helps doctors check for hormonal imbalances and certain medical conditions","You will collect all your urine in a special container for 24 hours"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
9310-4
Short code
ANDRO24
Synonyms
Androst 24h Ur-mRate
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
24-hour urine collection container (sterile, without preservatives or with appropriate preservative as specified by laboratory)
Units
N/A
Ref low
2
Ref high
6
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) or Immunoassay
CPT
82157
SNOMED
165457007
Specimen volume
Complete 24-hour urine collection; aliquot of 10-50 mL submitted for analysis
Stability
Stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; for longer storage, freeze at -20°C or below for up to 30 days
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
24–96 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The 24-hour urine androstenedione test measures how much androstenedione hormone your body produces and eliminates in a full day. Androstenedione (also called andro) is a steroid hormone made mainly by your adrenal glands, which sit on top of your kidneys. Your ovaries (in women) and testes (in men) also produce smaller amounts. This hormone is important because your body uses it to make other hormones like testosterone and estrogen.

Why do I need this test?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of a hormonal imbalance. For women, this might include excessive hair growth (hirsutism), irregular periods, or acne. For children, it may be ordered if they show signs of early puberty. The test helps doctors evaluate adrenal gland function and detect conditions like adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal tumors, or androgen-producing tumors.

How do I collect the sample?

You will receive a special container from the lab. On the morning of collection, start by urinating into the toilet and noting the exact time. For the next 24 hours, collect ALL your urine in the container. Keep the container refrigerated or on ice. At the exact same time the next morning, urinate into the container one last time to complete the collection. Label the container with your name and the start/end times, and take it to the lab as instructed.

Are there any risks?

This test has no medical risks. The main challenge is completing the 24-hour collection correctly. Make sure to follow all collection instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

Reference range

Reference ranges vary by age, sex, and laboratory methodology. Adult males: 2.0-6.0 mg/24h; Adult females: 0.5-4.0 mg/24h; values may differ for pediatric populationsN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Patient should maintain normal hydration and dietary habits during the 24-hour collection period. Avoid excessive physical exertion.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before this test?
No, you do not need to fast. You can eat and drink normally unless your doctor gives you other instructions. However, avoid taking supplements that contain androstenedione if you are using any.
Can I exercise during the collection period?
Yes, you can continue your normal activities. Exercise does not typically affect androstenedione levels significantly. However, inform your doctor about any intense physical training you regularly do, as this may be relevant to your results.
What happens if I miss a urine sample during the 24 hours?
Try not to miss any urine during the collection period. If you accidentally miss a collection, note the time and try to catch the next one. Contact your lab or healthcare provider for specific guidance if you think your collection may be incomplete.
Will I need this test more than once?
Your doctor will determine if repeat testing is needed. Sometimes androstenedione levels can vary, so your doctor may want to confirm results with a second test or monitor changes over time.
Does my menstrual cycle affect the results?
Yes, hormone levels can fluctuate during the menstrual cycle. For women, your doctor may recommend having the test at a specific time in your cycle. Make sure to inform your doctor about your cycle timing when scheduling the test.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - AndrostenedioneSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - Androstenedione, UrineSource
  3. 3
    National Institute of Child Health and Human Development - Adrenal HyperplasiaSource

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