Corticosteroid Saliva Mass Concentration (24-hour)

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or mood swings that suggest hormonal imbalances. It’s also used to monitor conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or adrenal gland disorders. Sometimes, it helps diagnose whether your body is producing too much or too little cortisol over time.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll collect saliva samples throughout the day in a provided container. Simply spit into the container at regular intervals (e.g., every few hours) and return it to your lab or doctor’s office by the end of the day.

What Happens During the Test

The collected saliva samples are sent to a lab for analysis. The lab measures the total cortisol present in each sample over the 24-hour period. Results are compared to expected ranges to identify any abnormalities.

What the Results Mean

Low or consistently low cortisol levels may indicate adrenal insufficiency (e.g., Addison’s disease), while high levels could suggest Cushing’s syndrome or other hypercortisolism conditions. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.