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16-Alpha-Hydroxydehydroepiandrosterone (16α-OH-DHEA), 24-Hour Urine — Substance Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A specialized measure of the adrenal androgen metabolite 16α-OH-DHEA collected over 24 hours to help evaluate hormone production.

Quick summary

["This test can help assess adrenal androgen production when symptoms suggest excess hormone activity."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73846-8
Short code
16A OH-DHEA 24h Ur-sCnc
Synonyms
16A OH-DHEA 24h Ur-sCnc
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
135
Ref high
980
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82626
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

16α-hydroxydehydroepiandrosterone, or 16α-OH-DHEA, is a steroid hormone formed from dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). This test measures its concentration in urine collected for 24 hours.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when signs or symptoms suggest too much androgen activity, such as unwanted hair growth, acne, menstrual changes, or virilization. It is generally used as part of a broader evaluation of adrenal and reproductive hormone production.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for a full 24-hour period in the container provided by the laboratory. The laboratory then measures the amount of 16α-OH-DHEA in the collected sample.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions and record when the collection begins and ends. Do not include urine from before or after the specified period, and tell your clinician about medicines, supplements, or hormone products you are using.

Reference range

NCBI: DHEA-S Male 135-980 µg/dL; Female 30-260 µg/dLN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine 16α-OH-DHEA

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine DHEA blood test?
No. This test measures 16α-OH-DHEA, a DHEA metabolite, in urine collected over 24 hours rather than measuring DHEA directly in blood.
What happens if part of the urine collection is missed?
A missed collection can make the result less reliable. Contact the laboratory for instructions if you are unsure how to restart or complete the collection.
Can medicines affect the result?
Yes. Hormonal medicines, antiandrogens, and some other drugs can affect adrenal androgen measurements, so provide your clinician with a complete medication and supplement list.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy