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Androsturmcnc

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

This test measures the level of androstenedione, a hormone that serves as a precursor to testosterone, in your urine to help evaluate hormonal imbalances.

Quick summary

{"Androstenedione is an androgen hormone produced by the adrenal glands and ovaries/testes","This urine test helps diagnose conditions related to excess or deficient androgen production","It is commonly used to evaluate menstrual irregularities, hirsutism, infertility, and adrenal disorders","The test requires a 24-hour urine collection for accurate results","Results are interpreted together with other hormone tests and clinical symptoms"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1855-6
Short code
ANDRO-U
Synonyms
Androst Ur-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
24-hour urine collection container (preferably with preservative such as boric acid or kept refrigerated)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.4
Ref high
4
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
1475006
Specimen volume
10 mL aliquot from a well-mixed 24-hour urine collection
Stability
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days; Room temperature: 24 hours
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
48–96 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The urine androstenedione test measures the amount of androstenedione in your urine. Androstenedione (also called andro) is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, ovaries in women, and testes in men. It serves as a precursor (building block) to male sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen. This test helps healthcare providers evaluate how well your body is producing and processing these hormones.

Why is it ordered?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms suggesting a hormonal imbalance. In women, this may include irregular periods, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), acne, or infertility. In men, it may help evaluate early or late puberty. The test is also useful in diagnosing adrenal gland disorders such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia or adrenal tumors.

How is the test performed?

For this test, you will need to collect all urine produced over a 24-hour period. This is called a 24-hour urine collection. You will be given a special container for collection. During the collection period, keep the container refrigerated or on ice. Return the complete collection to the lab as instructed. Follow any specific preparation instructions from your healthcare provider, which may include avoiding certain medications or foods.

Understanding your results

Normal androstenedione levels vary based on age, sex, and the laboratory that performs the test. Your results should be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms, other hormone levels, and overall health. Both high and low levels may indicate underlying conditions that require further investigation.

Reference range

Adult males: 0.4-4.0 mg/24h; Adult females: 0.2-3.0 mg/24h; Reference ranges vary by laboratory and method. Pediatric reference ranges differ from adult values and should be interpreted according to age-specific reference data.N/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Patients should be advised to avoid excessive physical exertion and maintain normal dietary habits prior to collection. Certain medications (e.g., corticosteroids, oral contraceptives, ACTH) may affect results and should be documented.

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?
Typically, fasting is not required for a urine androstenedione test. However, follow specific instructions from your healthcare provider. Some medications may affect test results, so inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking.
Are there any risks with this test?
There are no significant risks associated with urine collection. The test is non-invasive and simply requires collecting urine over a 24-hour period.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results or discuss them at your follow-up appointment.
What can affect my androstenedione levels?
Several factors can influence androstenedione levels, including stress, exercise intensity, certain medications (such as steroids or birth control pills), and time of day. Women may experience natural fluctuations during their menstrual cycle. It is important to discuss any relevant factors with your healthcare provider.
Do I need to do anything special during the 24-hour collection?
Yes, during the 24-hour collection period: keep the collection container refrigerated or on ice, do not include the first morning urine in the collection but start after that, collect all urine including the final morning specimen the next day, avoid contamination of the sample with toilet paper or feces, and inform the lab if you miss any collection or have any issues with the process.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - HormonesSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Polycystic Ovary SyndromeSource
  3. 3
    Endocrine Society - Patient EducationSource

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