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5-Alpha Tetrahydrocortisol, 24-Hour Urine — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of 5-alpha tetrahydrocortisol, a cortisol metabolite, collected in urine over 24 hours to help assess steroid metabolism.

Quick summary

["This specialized urine test can help evaluate how your body is producing and processing cortisol."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57613-2
Short code
5-A THF pre hi Dex 24h Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
5-A THF pre hi 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?

5-alpha tetrahydrocortisol is a metabolite formed as the body processes cortisol. This test measures its concentration in urine collected over 24 hours and can provide information about cortisol production and metabolism.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered when symptoms suggest excess cortisol production or an abnormality in cortisol metabolism. It is sometimes used in the evaluation of disorders involving 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, an enzyme that helps regulate cortisol action.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine produced during a full 24-hour period in the container provided by the laboratory. The collection is then submitted for measurement, usually by a specialized laboratory method.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions carefully, including any requirements for refrigeration or preservative. Record the collection start and finish times and tell the healthcare provider about corticosteroids, hormone medications, and supplements; do not stop prescribed medicines without medical advice.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

5-Alpha Tetrahydrocortisol, 24-Hour Urine

Frequently asked questions

Why is a 24-hour urine collection needed?
Collecting urine for a full day helps reduce the effect of daily fluctuations and provides a more representative measurement than a single urine sample.
Do I need to fast for this test?
Fasting is generally not required, but you should follow any specific instructions from the laboratory or ordering clinician.
What if I miss part of the urine collection?
Tell the laboratory or your clinician, because an incomplete collection can make the result less reliable. Do not add urine from outside the specified collection period unless instructed.
  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