Bcortolone24hursrate
A urine test that measures beta-cortolone, a byproduct of cortisol, to evaluate how well your adrenal glands are working.
{"Measures beta-cortolone levels in a 24-hour urine collection","Helps assess adrenal gland function and cortisol production","Used to diagnose conditions like Cushing's syndrome or Addison's disease","Requires collecting all urine over a 24-hour period","Results help doctors understand your body's stress hormone balance"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73877-3
- Short code
- BCTRLN24
- Synonyms
- B-cortolone 24h Ur-sRate
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- 24-hour urine collection container (typically a 2.5-3 liter amber plastic or glass container with preservative)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 20
- Ref high
- 400
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) or Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
- CPT
- 82542
- SNOMED
- 104791008
- Specimen volume
- Submit entire 24-hour urine collection; aliquot of at least 10-50 mL is required for analysis after total volume is recorded.
- Stability
- Urine stable for 7 days at 2-8°C (refrigerated) with appropriate preservative; for longer storage, freeze at -20°C or below for up to 6 months.
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 72–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The beta-cortolone test measures the amount of beta-cortolone in your urine over a 24-hour period. Beta-cortolone is a breakdown product (metabolite) of cortisol, which is a hormone produced by your adrenal glands. Cortisol is often called the 'stress hormone' because it helps your body respond to stress, maintain blood pressure, and regulate metabolism.
Why is this test done?
This test helps doctors evaluate how well your adrenal glands are functioning. By measuring beta-cortolone, your healthcare provider can determine if your body is producing the right amount of cortisol. It is commonly used to diagnose and monitor conditions that affect cortisol levels, such as Cushing's syndrome (too much cortisol) or Addison's disease (too little cortisol).
How do I prepare for this test?
Your doctor may ask you to stop certain medications before the test, as some drugs can affect cortisol levels. These may include steroids, birth control pills, or certain blood pressure medications. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully. You do not need to fast for this test, but you should drink normal amounts of water and follow your usual diet.
How is the urine collected?
You will receive a special container for collecting your urine. On the morning of the test, start by urinating into the toilet and noting the time. For the next 24 hours, collect all your urine in the provided container. Keep the container refrigerated or in a cool place. At the end of 24 hours, urinate one final time and add that sample to the container. Return the container to your lab or healthcare provider as instructed.
What do the results mean?
Your test results will show the amount of beta-cortolone in your 24-hour urine collection. Higher than normal levels may indicate conditions that cause excess cortisol production, such as Cushing's syndrome, adrenal tumors, or pituitary gland problems. Lower than normal levels may suggest adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease) or pituitary gland issues. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your symptoms and other test results.
Reference range
Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/A
No special preparation required. Patient should maintain normal dietary and fluid intake prior to and during urine collection unless otherwise directed by physician.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Does the 24-hour urine collection have to be exactly 24 hours?
Can I exercise during the collection period?
What happens if I forget to collect a urine sample?
Are there any side effects or risks from this test?
How long does it take to get results?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
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.
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