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Cortisol, Salivary, Free, 10-Point Profile (Salivary Cortisol Levels)

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

This test measures your natural cortisol levels in saliva over a 10-point schedule, helping assess your body’s cortisol rhythm and adrenal function.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose adrenal disorders and stress-related conditions by tracking cortisol fluctuations throughout the day."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58638-8
Short code
Cortis sp10 p chal Sal-sCnc
Synonyms
Cortis sp10 p chal Sal-sCnc
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 This Test Is Done

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or irregular sleep patterns that suggest adrenal issues. It’s also used to evaluate conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or Addison’s disease, or to monitor cortisol levels in chronic stress scenarios.

How Cortisol Levels Change Naturally

Cortisol, a stress hormone, peaks in the morning and declines toward nighttime. A 10-point salivary cortisol profile captures these natural variations, helping identify whether your levels are consistently high or low.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but avoid caffeine, alcohol, or smoking for 24 hours before testing. Collect saliva samples at home at specified times (e.g., morning, noon, evening) using a provided kit.

How the Test Works

Saliva is collected in small amounts at each scheduled time point. The lab analyzes these samples to measure cortisol concentration, which reflects your body’s stress response at that moment.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormal cortisol patterns may indicate adrenal dysfunction, such as hypercortisolism (e.g., Cushing’s syndrome) or hypocortisolism (e.g., Addison’s disease). Chronic stress or pituitary disorders can also disrupt cortisol rhythms, making this test useful for diagnosis and management.

Short name

Salivary Cortisol Profile

Frequently asked questions

What Does a Cortisol Profile Tell You?
If your cortisol levels are consistently high or low across the 10 points, it may signal an underlying hormonal imbalance. Your doctor will interpret results in relation to your symptoms and medical history.
How Often Is This Test Repeated?
Results may guide further testing or treatment adjustments. Some patients return for follow-up if initial findings suggest ongoing adrenal or stress-related concerns.
Can Diet or Medications Affect Cortisol Levels?
Yes—caffeine, alcohol, and certain medications (e.g., steroids) can influence cortisol. Your doctor will advise you to avoid these during the test period to ensure accurate results.
  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