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Cortisol (24-hour urine, mass concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of cortisol, a natural steroid hormone, excreted in your urine over a full day. It helps assess your body’s cortisol production and can identify conditions related to cortisol imbalance.

Quick summary

["A 24-hour urine cortisol test checks for abnormal hormone levels that may signal adrenal issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25883-0
Short code
Cortis F 24h Ur HPLC-sCnc
Synonyms
Cortis F 24h Ur HPLC-sCnc
Category
hormone
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
hplc
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may recommend this test if they suspect conditions like Cushing’s syndrome (overproduction of cortisol) or adrenal insufficiency (underproduction). It’s also used to monitor treatment effectiveness for hormone-related disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

Collect all urine for 24 hours, starting and ending with your first morning urine. Store samples properly to preserve accuracy. Avoid certain medications that could affect results.

How the Test Works

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) separates and measures cortisol in your urine sample. This precise method ensures accurate detection of cortisol levels over time.

What the Results Mean

Elevated results may indicate conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or inappropriate cortisol secretion. Low results could suggest adrenal gland problems or other hormonal imbalances.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Cortisol (24-hour)

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal cortisol levels?
Abnormal results can stem from conditions like Cushing’s syndrome (due to excess cortisol), adrenal tumors, or medications that affect cortisol metabolism. Rarely, genetic disorders or pituitary issues may also play a role.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically ready within 3–7 business days, depending on lab processing times. Follow-up with your healthcare provider to discuss findings.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Limit alcohol intake before testing, as it may affect cortisol levels. Stick to your usual diet and avoid medications that could interfere unless instructed otherwise.
  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