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Steroid Hormone Profile (24-Hour Urinary) – Free Cortisol, DHEAS, and Other Metabolites

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

This test measures key steroid hormones and their metabolites in your urine over 24 hours to assess adrenal function, hormone balance, and potential hormonal imbalances.

Quick summary

["Helps evaluate adrenal gland health and hormone production over a full day’s cycle."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
107423-6
Short code
XR.stereo Guide Brst-R vac exc lesion
Synonyms
XR.stereo Guide Brst-R vac exc lesion
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-stereotactic
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 order this test to check for conditions like Cushing’s syndrome (excess cortisol), adrenal insufficiency, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia. It can also help diagnose hormonal imbalances or monitor treatment responses in conditions affecting steroid production.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll collect your urine for 24 hours, starting after you wake up and ending just before you wake up the next day. Store the urine in a refrigerator or freezer until you return it to the lab. Follow any specific instructions your doctor provides to ensure accurate results.

What Happens During the Test

No special preparation is needed beyond collecting urine over 24 hours. The lab analyzes the urine sample to measure specific steroid hormones and their metabolites, which are then compared to reference ranges for interpretation.

What the Results Mean

Results may show elevated or low levels of cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), or other metabolites, which can indicate underlying health conditions. Your doctor will discuss these findings with you and may recommend further testing or treatment plans.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

24-Hour Urinary Steroid Hormones

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated or low levels of these hormones?
Elevated levels may suggest conditions like Cushing’s syndrome (due to excess cortisol), hyperandrogenism, or certain tumors affecting steroid production. Low levels could indicate adrenal insufficiency, pituitary issues, or genetic disorders.
How long will it take to get results?
Results typically take 3–7 business days, depending on lab processing. Your doctor will contact you once they are ready for review.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Alcohol may affect hormone levels, so it’s best to avoid it for 24–48 hours before collecting your urine to ensure accurate 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