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Deoxycorticosterone (DOC) in Serum/Plasma (24-hour urine collection)

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

This test measures the amount of deoxycorticosterone, a hormone involved in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance, in your urine over a 24-hour period. It may be used to evaluate adrenal gland function.

Quick summary

["A 24-hour urine DOC test helps assess how well your adrenal glands produce this hormone, which can be important for diagnosing conditions like adrenal insufficiency or certain hormonal imbalances."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24791-6
Short code
Deprecated KD-Bl+CS XR.Tomo
Synonyms
Deprecated KD-Bl+CS XR.Tomo
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr-tomo
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may recommend a 24-hour urine DOC test if they suspect an issue with your adrenal glands, such as Cushing’s syndrome (overactive adrenal glands) or Addison’s disease (underactive adrenal glands). It can also help diagnose conditions like primary aldosteronism or evaluate responses to certain treatments.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period, typically starting after midnight on one day and ending just after midnight the next. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results. You may need to wear a special collection bag or use a container to store urine.

During the Test

No special preparation is needed beyond collecting urine as directed. The test involves measuring the amount of deoxycorticosterone in your urine sample. This is usually done using a specialized laboratory technique to detect and quantify the hormone.

After the Test

After completing the urine collection, return the sample to the lab as instructed. Results may take several days to process and review. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you and explain any next steps.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

DOC Urine

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low result mean?
A high result may suggest conditions like adrenal tumors or excessive hormone production, which can affect blood pressure and fluid balance. A low result might indicate adrenal gland dysfunction or other hormonal issues. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
How is this test different from a blood test for DOC?
A 24-hour urine test measures DOC over a full day, giving a more comprehensive picture of your body’s hormone production. A blood test measures DOC at a single point in time, which may not reflect daily variations. Urine tests are often preferred for conditions involving long-term hormone levels.
Can I take medications before this test?
Yes, you may need to temporarily adjust or stop certain medications, especially those affecting adrenal function or blood pressure, as directed by your doctor. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions to avoid interfering with the test results.
  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