Test library
Serum Cortisol Test
A cortisol blood test measures the adrenal stress hormone at a single point in time, helping evaluate adrenal function and conditions linked to abnormal cortisol levels.
Order Cortisol Levels Blood Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Cortisol Levels Blood Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $109
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The cortisol blood test measures the level of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, in a blood sample. Cortisol helps regulate metabolism, blood pressure, and the body's response to stress. The test is used when a provider suspects a cortisol imbalance or wants to monitor a known adrenal condition. Results are interpreted with the time of collection and your symptoms.
What this test measures
This test measures total serum cortisol at a single point in time. Cortisol is made by the adrenal glands and follows a daily rhythm, typically highest in the early morning and lowest late at night. It plays a central role in metabolizing carbohydrates, proteins, and fats and in helping the body respond to stress. A single value is most informative when the collection time is known, because reference ranges vary through the day.
A blood sample is collected by venipuncture, usually in the morning for a standard measurement. The laboratory analyzes cortisol with an immunoassay and reports the value with a time-specific reference range. When more detail is needed, providers may add ACTH, cortisol-binding globulin, a 24-hour urinary free cortisol collection, or salivary cortisol testing to see how the hormone behaves across the day.
People order cortisol testing when symptoms such as fatigue, weight change, mood changes, or blood pressure changes raise a question about adrenal function. It is also used to monitor cortisol-related conditions over time. The test supports evaluation rather than diagnosing on its own, so a qualified healthcare provider should interpret the result with your clinical picture.
- Total serum cortisol
- Free cortisol when calculated or measured
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) when included
- Cortisol-binding globulin when included
- 24-hour urinary free cortisol when ordered
- Salivary cortisol when ordered
Why people order this test
- Evaluate adrenal function when cortisol imbalance is suspected
- Investigate fatigue or unexplained weight changes
- Monitor a known cortisol-related condition
- Add context with ACTH or urinary cortisol testing
- Provide a timed hormone measurement for a provider review
How to prepare
A morning collection is typically preferred so the result can be compared with time-specific reference ranges. Fasting may be requested if other tests are included. Tell the laboratory about medications and recent illness, because both can influence cortisol levels.
Understanding your results
Results are generally available within one to three business days. The value is compared with a reference range appropriate for the collection time. A healthcare provider should interpret the result with your symptoms, medications, and any additional hormone testing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does collection time matter for cortisol?
Cortisol normally rises and falls through the day, so reference ranges differ by time. A morning sample is compared with morning ranges.
What is the difference between blood and salivary cortisol?
Both measure cortisol, but saliva reflects the free hormone and can be collected at home at specific times. A provider chooses the appropriate method.
Do I need to fast?
Fasting may be requested depending on the other tests in your order. Follow the laboratory instructions.
Can stress affect a cortisol result?
Acute stress, illness, and some medications can influence cortisol. Interpretation accounts for these factors.
Does one cortisol test diagnose adrenal disease?
No. Diagnosis requires clinical evaluation and often several tests. A healthcare provider determines what is needed.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
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