5-Alpha Tetrahydrocortisol 2,3-Dione, 24-Hour Urine — Mass Concentration
Measures a cortisol metabolite excreted over 24 hours to help evaluate adrenal steroid production and metabolism.
["This 24-hour urine test helps assess cortisol metabolism and may support evaluation of certain adrenal hormone disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 57619-9
- Short code
- 5-A THF 2D p Dex 24h Ur-mCnc
- Synonyms
- 5-A THF 2D p Dex 24h Ur-mCnc
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 5-alpha tetrahydrocortisol 2,3-dione, a metabolite formed as the body processes cortisol. The amount released in urine during a 24-hour period provides information about adrenal steroid metabolism.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order this test when evaluating unusual hormone symptoms, excess cortisol production, or a possible adrenal disorder. It can also provide information about the activity of enzymes involved in cortisol production, including 11-beta-hydroxylase.
How is the test performed?
You collect all urine for a full 24 hours in the container provided by the laboratory. The laboratory then measures the amount of this metabolite in the collection and accounts for the total urine volume.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the collection instructions carefully and record the start and finish times. Tell your clinician about medicines, supplements, and medical conditions that could affect the result, and do not stop prescribed medicines unless instructed to do so.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An abnormal amount may indicate altered cortisol production or metabolism, such as an adrenal enzyme disorder affecting 11-beta-hydroxylase. Results can also be influenced by kidney function, medications, or incomplete urine collection, so they should be interpreted with symptoms and other hormone tests.
Short name
5-Alpha-THF 2,3-Dione, 24-Hour Urine
Frequently asked questions
Why is urine collected for 24 hours?
What if part of the urine collection is missed?
Does one abnormal result confirm an adrenal disorder?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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