Cortisol Test – Serum
Sample Type
Recommended for
Report
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, and its levels fluctuate throughout the day, with the highest levels typically observed in the early morning. The Cortisol 8:00 am test, conducted on a serum sample, is used to assess cortisol levels in the blood at a specific time in the morning. This specific timing is crucial as it helps evaluate the body’s ability to produce cortisol during the peak period of its natural circadian rhythm.
Reasons for Undergoing the Cortisol Test
The Cortisol Test, or the Serum Cortisol Test, is a crucial diagnostic tool that helps evaluate various conditions related to cortisol production. There are several key reasons for undergoing the Cortisol Test:
- To diagnose Cushing’s syndrome and Cushing’s disease, which are characterised by high levels of cortisol due to excessive production of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
- To identify Addison’s disease, a condition where the adrenal glands do not produce sufficient cortisol
- To assess adrenal gland function and check for abnormalities in cortisol production, which can be affected by conditions such as hypopituitarism or adrenal gland tumours
- To monitor cortisol levels in patients taking glucocorticoid medications or to check for suppression of normal pituitary or adrenal function by these medications
- To investigate symptoms such as unexplained weight gain, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, and other indicators of abnormal cortisol levels
List of Parameters Considered During the Cortisol Test
The cortisol level test measures the amount of cortisol hormone in the body through blood, urine, or saliva samples. The main parameter assessed is:
- Cortisol Levels in Blood: Normal morning values typically range from 5 to 25 mcg/dL (140 to 690 nmol/L). High cortisol levels can indicate conditions like Cushing’s syndrome, ectopic Cushing syndrome, adrenal gland tumours, stress, or acute illness. Low cortisol levels may suggest Addison’s disease, hypopituitarism, or suppression of normal pituitary or adrenal function by glucocorticoid medications.
Home Collection for Cortisol Test Near You
SimplyCare provides a convenient home sample collection service for the cortisol blood test. A trained phlebotomist will visit your home to collect your blood sample, ensuring your comfort and safety. We at SimplyCare follow a high standard of sample handling, so there is no compromise on testing accuracy. You can expect timely, dependable Cortisol Test results, delivered with precision.
SimplyCare is committed to enhance the accessibility and providing quality diagnostic solutions conveniently at home. This home collection service allows you to undergo the Serum Cortisol Test without the need to visit a clinic, saving you both time and effort.
Price : ₹ 850
The Cortisol 8.00 am test measures the concentration of cortisol in the blood at 8:00 am.
Diagnosis of Adrenal Disorders:
- Cushing’s Syndrome: Elevated cortisol levels at 8:00 am may indicate Cushing’s syndrome, a condition characterized by excessive cortisol production.
- Addison’s Disease: Low cortisol levels at 8:00 am may suggest Addison’s disease, an adrenal insufficiency condition.
- Monitoring Cortisol Replacement Therapy: For individuals receiving cortisol replacement therapy, the test is used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
- Identification of Hormonal Imbalances: The test is part of a comprehensive hormonal evaluation, especially when hormonal imbalances are suspected. It aids in identifying disruptions in the endocrine system.
- Evaluation of Stress Response: Cortisol is often referred to as the “stress hormone.” Measuring cortisol levels in the morning provides insight into the body’s ability to mount a proper stress response.
- Risk Assessment for Associated Conditions: Elevated cortisol levels may be associated with an increased risk of conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Monitoring cortisol levels can contribute to assessing overall health risks.
If a person exhibits symptoms such as abdominal obesity, thin skin, easy bruising, and high blood pressure, a cortisol 8:00 am test may be recommended to investigate possible Cushing’s syndrome.
- In cases where symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, and low blood pressure suggest Addison’s disease, the test may be used to assess cortisol levels.
- Individuals receiving cortisol replacement therapy due to adrenal insufficiency may undergo this test to ensure appropriate dosing and management.
- The test may be part of a broader hormonal evaluation, especially when hormonal imbalances are suspected.
Abnormal results may indicate various conditions, including Cushing’s syndrome or Addison’s disease. Elevated cortisol levels may suggest an overproduction (Cushing’s), while low levels may indicate an underproduction (Addison’s) of cortisol.
The test involves taking a blood sample at 8:00 am. A healthcare professional will insert a needle into a vein to collect the blood. The procedure is relatively quick and typically causes minimal discomfort.
