Cortisol, Mass Concentration (Serum or Plasma)
This test measures the amount of cortisol, a hormone produced by your adrenal glands, in your blood. Cortisol helps regulate metabolism, immune response, and stress reactions.
["Cortisol helps manage stress and supports normal bodily functions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2143-6
- Short code
- Cortis SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Cortis SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- hormone
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order cortisol testing if you have symptoms like unexplained weight changes, fatigue, muscle weakness, or signs of hormonal imbalances. It can also help diagnose conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome (too much cortisol) or Addison’s disease (too little cortisol).
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch when the needle is inserted, but the process is quick. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but if you’re taking medications that affect cortisol levels (like steroids), your doctor may advise adjustments. Avoid caffeine or stress-inducing activities before the test if instructed.
What Are Common Results Used For?
Results help determine if your cortisol levels are too high or too low, guiding treatment for conditions like hormonal disorders, adrenal insufficiency, or stress-related issues.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Cortisol plays a vital role in your body’s response to stress and helps maintain balance in metabolism and immune function. Abnormal levels can indicate underlying health issues, such as adrenal gland problems, pituitary disorders, or chronic stress. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
Cortisol Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my cortisol test results?
You can eat and drink normally unless your doctor specifies otherwise. Some tests may require fasting, but cortisol tests do not.
If your results are outside the expected range, your doctor may recommend further testing or treatments to address the underlying cause, such as medication adjustments or additional evaluations.
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