5-Alpha-Tetrahydrocortisol and Deoxycortisol Metabolites, 24-Hour Urine — Mass Rate
Measures steroid metabolites, including 5-alpha-tetrahydrocortisol and related deoxycortisol compounds, in urine collected over 24 hours to assess adrenal steroid production.
["This test helps evaluate adrenal steroid metabolism and may assist in diagnosing certain hormonal disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 57616-5
- Short code
- 5-A THF 2D p high Dex 24h Ur-mRate
- Synonyms
- 5-A THF 2D p high Dex 24h Ur-mRate
- 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 steroid metabolites in a 24-hour urine collection. The results can provide information about cortisol production and metabolism by the adrenal glands.
Why might I need this test?
It may be ordered to investigate an imbalance in adrenal hormones, unusually low blood cortisol, early puberty, hypertension with low potassium, or other symptoms suggesting a steroid-production disorder.
How is the test performed?
You collect all urine for exactly 24 hours, usually in a labeled container provided by the laboratory. The total volume is recorded, and a portion is analyzed to calculate the amount of each metabolite excreted per day.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the laboratory's collection instructions and note the start and end times. Tell the healthcare team about medicines, supplements, supplements containing hormones, pregnancy, and any recent illness because they may affect the results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal amounts or patterns of these metabolites may indicate altered adrenal steroid production or metabolism. Depending on the metabolite and the overall pattern, results can be associated with cortisol-production disorders, enzyme deficiencies, or changes in the handling of cortisol and related steroids. Results should be interpreted with symptoms, medication history, and other laboratory tests.
Short name
24-Hour Urine Cortisol Metabolites
Frequently asked questions
Why is a 24-hour urine collection needed?
Does this test measure blood cortisol?
Can medications affect the results?
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