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16-Alpha-Hydroxydehydroepiandrosterone, Urine — Substance Concentration

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

A urine test that measures 16α-hydroxydehydroepiandrosterone, an adrenal steroid hormone related to DHEA production.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess adrenal steroid production and may be used when an adrenal hormone disorder is suspected."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73844-3
Short code
16A OH-DHEA Ur-sCnc
Synonyms
16A OH-DHEA 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?

This test measures the amount of 16α-hydroxydehydroepiandrosterone (16α-OH-DHEA) in urine. This compound is a steroid related to dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), which is produced by the adrenal glands.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test to evaluate adrenal steroid production, particularly when symptoms or laboratory findings suggest an adrenal hormone disorder or an enzyme that affects steroid production.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory to determine the concentration of 16α-OH-DHEA. Your clinician or laboratory will explain whether a single sample or a timed collection is required.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's and laboratory's collection instructions carefully, including any timing requirements. If a 24-hour collection is requested, record all urine produced during the specified period and store the container as instructed.

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

16α-Hydroxy-DHEA, Urine

Frequently asked questions

What does 16α-OH-DHEA measure?
It measures a steroid hormone related to DHEA, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. The test assesses a part of the body's adrenal steroid-production pathway.
Is this the same as a DHEA sulfate test?
No. DHEA sulfate is a distinct adrenal hormone product, while this test measures 16α-OH-DHEA in urine. Your clinician will determine which test best fits the concern being evaluated.
Why might the result be abnormal?
Abnormal levels can occur with conditions that alter adrenal steroid production, including enzyme-related disorders or increased hormone production. The result must be considered alongside other clinical and laboratory findings.
  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