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Alpha-Cortolone, 2-Day Pooled 24-Hour Urine — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the concentration of alpha-cortolone, a steroid metabolite, in urine collected over 24 hours across two days.

Quick summary

["This test measures a steroid metabolite in urine to help assess adrenal steroid production and metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57635-5
Short code
A-cortolone 2D p Dex 24h Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
A-cortolone 2D p Dex 24h Ur-mCnc
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
20
Ref high
400
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82670
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 laboratory test measures alpha-cortolone in urine. Alpha-cortolone is a metabolite formed during the processing of steroid hormones, including cortisol.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test as part of an evaluation of adrenal hormone production, suspected adrenal or genetic disorders, or unexplained hormonal symptoms. It is usually interpreted together with other steroid measurements.

How is the test performed?

Urine is collected for each 24-hour period according to the laboratory's instructions. When two collections are requested, they may be tested separately or pooled for analysis, and the laboratory reports the amount of alpha-cortolone relative to the urine collected.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's urine-collection instructions carefully and record the start and end times. Tell your clinician about corticosteroid or other hormonal medicines, because they can affect steroid-metabolite results.

Reference range

Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/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

Alpha-Cortolone, 24-Hour Urine

Frequently asked questions

Why does the test use a 24-hour urine collection?
Steroid metabolites are released throughout the day, so collecting urine for the full specified period provides a more representative measurement than a single urine sample.
What does the two-day collection mean?
It may involve collecting urine during two separate 24-hour periods for laboratory testing or pooling, depending on the instructions provided by the laboratory.
Can medicines affect the result?
Yes. Corticosteroids and other hormonal medicines can change steroid production and metabolite levels, so medication use should be reported to the ordering clinician.
  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