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Cortisol, Serum (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of cortisol, a natural steroid hormone produced by your adrenal glands, in your blood serum. Cortisol plays a key role in managing stress, immune response, and metabolism.

Quick summary

["Cortisol helps regulate how your body responds to stress and maintains balance in your body’s systems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1406-8
Short code
Cortis 1M p 1 u/kg CRH IV SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Cortis 1M p 1 u/kg CRH IV SerPl-mCnc
Category
hormone
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86701
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome (too much cortisol), Addison’s disease (too little cortisol), or adrenal gland issues. It can also help assess stress levels, evaluate pituitary gland function, or check for hormone imbalances.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm, typically in a clinic or lab. If you’re taking medications that affect cortisol levels (like steroids), let your provider know.

What the Results Mean

Results are used to compare against normal ranges for your age, sex, and health status. Abnormally high or low cortisol levels may indicate underlying health concerns that need further evaluation.

Common Conditions Influencing Results

Cortisol levels can be influenced by factors like stress, time of day (cortisol peaks in the morning), medications, certain medical conditions, or even recent physical activity. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Cortisol’s Role in Health

Short name

Serum Cortisol

Frequently asked questions

How is cortisol measured in this test?
This test uses a blood sample collected from your vein, and cortisol levels are measured through a specialized immunoassay method that detects the hormone’s presence in your serum. The test helps identify whether cortisol production is too high or too low.
What if my cortisol levels are abnormal?
If your cortisol levels are outside the expected range, your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests (like a 24-hour urine cortisol test or a dexamethasone suppression test) to further investigate potential causes, such as adrenal or pituitary disorders.
Can diet or lifestyle affect cortisol test results?
Yes, stress, diet, exercise, and certain medications can temporarily alter cortisol levels. If you have recent changes in lifestyle or medication use, discuss them with your provider before or after the test.
  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