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Cortisol in Saliva, Mass Concentration

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

This test measures cortisol, a natural steroid hormone produced by your adrenal glands, in your saliva. It helps assess your body’s stress response over time.

Quick summary

["Salivary cortisol helps track how your body handles stress naturally."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57688-4
Short code
Cortis sp3 Sal-mCnc
Synonyms
Cortis sp3 Sal-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 This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test to evaluate your cortisol levels throughout the day, which can help diagnose conditions like Cushing’s syndrome, adrenal insufficiency, or irregular stress responses. Unlike blood tests, saliva cortisol reflects hormone levels at the moment of collection, offering a more natural picture of your body’s activity.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. Collect saliva samples at different times (e.g., morning, noon, evening) to capture natural fluctuations. Avoid brushing your teeth or eating/drinking for 30 minutes before each sample to ensure accurate results.

How the Test Works

Saliva is collected in a special container, often by spitting into it. The test measures cortisol levels in the saliva, which is then analyzed in a lab using a sensitive immunoassay method to detect hormone presence.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to reference ranges specific to the time of day and individual health. Abnormal patterns may indicate whether cortisol levels are too high or too low, which can signal underlying health concerns.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Salivary cortisol testing is particularly useful for diagnosing conditions where cortisol levels fluctuate throughout the day, such as Cushing’s disease (excess cortisol) or Addison’s disease (low cortisol). It can also help monitor stress-related hormone imbalances or rule out other adrenal or pituitary disorders.

Short name

Salivary Cortisol

Frequently asked questions

How often should I collect saliva samples?
You’ll typically collect samples at least 3 times during a 24-hour period (e.g., morning, afternoon, evening) to capture natural cortisol variations. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for timing and frequency.
Can I take medications before the test?
Some medications, like steroids or certain blood pressure drugs, may affect cortisol levels. Always inform your doctor about all medications before the test to avoid interference with results.
Is there any risk or discomfort with this test?
No discomfort is expected. The only action is spitting into a container, which is quick and painless. Avoid rinsing your mouth with mouthwash or eating/drinking for 30 minutes before collection to ensure accuracy.
  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