Cortisol, Serum (Concentration)
This test measures the amount of cortisol, a hormone produced by your adrenal glands, in your blood serum. Cortisol helps regulate metabolism, immune response, and stress reactions.
["Cortisol helps manage stress and supports normal bodily functions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 47609-3
- Short code
- Cortis pre 1 ug/kg CRH IV SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Cortis pre 1 ug/kg CRH IV SerPl-sCnc
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order cortisol testing to diagnose or monitor conditions like adrenal gland disorders (such as Cushing’s syndrome or Addison’s disease), evaluate symptoms of stress or hormonal imbalances, or assess how your body responds to certain medications or treatments.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re taking medications that affect cortisol levels (like steroids), let your healthcare provider know before the test.
How the Test Works
A small amount of blood is collected from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to measure cortisol concentration. The result helps determine if your cortisol levels are too high or too low.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to standard reference ranges to identify whether cortisol levels are within normal limits, elevated, or decreased. Abnormal results may prompt further testing or medical evaluation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Cortisol plays a key role in managing stress, immune function, and metabolism. Low cortisol levels (hypocortisolism) can cause fatigue, weight loss, or low blood pressure, while high cortisol levels (hypercortisolism) may lead to weight gain, high blood pressure, or skin changes. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
Cortisol Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes cortisol levels to be tested?
How long does it take to get the results?
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