Cortisol, 30-minute post-stimulation (CRH-stimulated) serum concentration

This test is done to help your healthcare provider learn more about how your body is working and to look for signs of a health condition that may need attention. The results can help confirm or rule out a diagnosis, guide treatment decisions, and track changes in your health over time.

Your doctor may order this test if they suspect conditions like Cushing’s syndrome (overactive adrenal glands), adrenal insufficiency (underactive adrenal glands), or pituitary disorders that affect cortisol production. It can also help diagnose or monitor stress-related hormone imbalances.

Before the test, your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions to follow. You may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for a set period of time, stop taking certain medicines, or wear loose, comfortable clothing. Tell your care team about any medicines, supplements, or allergies you have, and ask questions if anything is unclear.

You’ll receive an injection of CRH in your arm. Blood will be drawn before and 30 minutes after the injection to measure cortisol levels. This is usually done in a doctor’s office or lab setting.

During the test, a trained member of your care team will follow standard steps to collect the information or sample needed. The process is usually quick, and most people find it only mildly uncomfortable if at all. Your care team will explain each step as it happens and can pause whenever you need a moment.

CRH is a hormone that stimulates the adrenal glands to release cortisol. By measuring cortisol before and after the injection, doctors can see how effectively your body responds to this stressor.

Your results will show whether your values fall within the expected range for this test. Results within range can be reassuring, while values that are higher or lower than expected may point to a condition that needs further evaluation. Only your healthcare provider can interpret your results in the context of your full health history, so review them together.

Results help determine if your adrenal glands are functioning normally. Abnormally high or low cortisol responses may indicate underlying health issues requiring further evaluation.