Bcortolonemsmtur
A urine test that measures beta cortolone levels to evaluate adrenal gland function and detect hormonal disorders.
{"Beta cortolone is a byproduct of cortisol metabolism produced by the adrenal glands","This test helps diagnose conditions like Cushing's syndrome and adrenal insufficiency","A 24-hour urine collection is typically required for accurate results","Results are compared against reference ranges based on age and gender","Abnormal results may require additional testing for definitive diagnosis"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 110407-4
- Short code
- BCORTOL
- Synonyms
- B-cortolone Msmt Ur
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- 24-hour urine collection container (sterile, preservative-free or with appropriate preservative per laboratory requirements)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–99 years
- Method
- Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) or Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)
- CPT
- 82542
- SNOMED
- 44066005
- Specimen volume
- Entire 24-hour urine collection; minimum 10 mL aliquot from well-mixed total volume
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days for long-term storage. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 72–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The beta cortolone urine test measures the amount of beta cortolone in your urine. Beta cortolone is a metabolite—a breakdown product—of cortisol, which is the primary stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands. By measuring this substance in urine, healthcare providers can assess how well your adrenal glands are functioning.
Why is this test performed?
This test is primarily ordered to help diagnose and monitor disorders related to adrenal gland function, including Cushing's syndrome (overproduction of cortisol), Addison's disease (underproduction of cortisol), and other conditions affecting the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. It may also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for these conditions.
How is the test performed?
The test requires a 24-hour urine collection. You will be given a special container to collect all urine produced over a 24-hour period. It's important to follow the collection instructions carefully—store the container refrigerated or on ice during collection, and keep it away from direct sunlight. At the end of 24 hours, return the container to the laboratory as instructed.
How to prepare for the test?
Your doctor may ask you to stop certain medications before the test, as some drugs can affect cortisol levels. These may include corticosteroids, birth control pills, and certain antidepressants. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about medication adjustments. Also, avoid strenuous exercise and significant stress during the collection period, as these can temporarily affect cortisol levels.
Understanding your results?
Test results are reported as micrograms per 24 hours (μg/24h). Reference ranges vary by laboratory and are influenced by factors such as age, gender, and the specific testing method used. Your doctor will interpret your results in the context of your symptoms and other test findings. Elevated beta cortolone may indicate Cushing's syndrome, while low levels may suggest adrenal insufficiency.
Reference range
Reference values are laboratory-specific and may vary by methodology. Beta-cortolone is a metabolite of cortisol; urinary excretion levels should be interpreted alongside other adrenal steroid metabolites. Typical urinary beta-cortolone excretion in healthy adults is reported in the low microgram per 24-hour range; consult laboratory-specific reference interval.N/A
No special preparation required. Patients should maintain their usual dietary and fluid intake unless instructed otherwise by their healthcare provider. Avoid excessive fluid intake during the 24-hour collection period.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is the 24-hour urine collection difficult?
Can I do normal activities during urine collection?
How long does it take to get results?
Will I need other tests?
Does this test have risks?
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