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6-Alpha-Hydroxytestosterone, 24-Hour Urine — Mass Excretion Rate

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

A 24-hour urine test measures the excretion rate of 6-alpha-hydroxytestosterone, a steroid hormone metabolite used in specialized adrenal steroid evaluations.

Quick summary

["This test measures how much 6-alpha-hydroxytestosterone is released in the urine over 24 hours."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57602-5
Short code
6A-OH-THS Pre Dex 24h Ur-mRate
Synonyms
6A-OH-THS Pre 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 6-alpha-hydroxytestosterone, a breakdown product related to steroid hormones, in urine collected over 24 hours. The result shows the amount excreted per unit of time rather than the concentration in a single urine sample.

Why might I need this test?

This specialized test may be used to evaluate adrenal steroid production and metabolism. It is sometimes included in the evaluation of hormonal disorders, including certain forms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and is generally interpreted with other laboratory results and clinical findings.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for a full 24-hour period, usually in a labeled container provided by the laboratory. The laboratory measures 6-alpha-hydroxytestosterone and may use the collection time and total urine volume to calculate the excretion rate.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions and record the start and finish times. Keep every urine sample from the collection period, refrigerate the container if instructed, and return it promptly. Tell the healthcare team about medicines, supplements, or hormonal treatments that could affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine 6-Alpha-Hydroxytestosterone

Frequently asked questions

Why is urine collected for 24 hours?
Hormone metabolites fluctuate throughout the day. Collecting all urine for 24 hours provides a more representative estimate of how much the substance is being excreted.
What happens if part of the urine collection is missed?
The calculated excretion rate may be inaccurate or too low. Contact the laboratory or your clinician for instructions about restarting the collection.
Does an abnormal result mean I have a specific disorder?
No. An abnormal result only suggests that steroid production or metabolism may need further evaluation. Your clinician will interpret it alongside your symptoms, examination, and other tests.
  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