Cortisol with 3-hour triple bolus measurement (serum/plasma)
This test measures cortisol levels in your blood at three different times to assess how your body responds to a stressor, often used to evaluate adrenal function or pituitary-adrenal axis.
["Helps diagnose conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or adrenal insufficiency by tracking cortisol spikes over time."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40312-1
- Short code
- Cortis 30M p Triple Bolus SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Cortis 30M p Triple Bolus SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- hormone
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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 Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if they suspect conditions affecting your adrenal glands or pituitary gland, such as Cushing’s syndrome (too much cortisol) or adrenal insufficiency (too little cortisol). It’s also used to check how your body reacts to stress or certain medications.
How the Test Works
You’ll receive a small injection or pill to stimulate your body to produce cortisol. Blood samples are drawn at three different times (typically 0, 30, and 60 minutes) to measure cortisol levels. This helps doctors see how your body responds to the stimulus.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications that could affect cortisol levels. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
What to Expect During the Test
The test involves a few small blood draws while you rest. You may feel slight discomfort, but it’s quick and painless. You’ll likely be asked to stay still for a short period while the samples are processed.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High cortisol levels over time may indicate Cushing’s syndrome, hyperadrenalism, or other conditions causing prolonged stress on your body. Low cortisol levels could signal adrenal insufficiency, pituitary issues, or other hormonal imbalances. This test helps doctors diagnose and guide treatment plans for these conditions.
Short name
Cortisol Levels (Triple Bolus)
Frequently asked questions
How long will it take to get my results?
What does my cortisol test mean?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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