Cortisol, Saliva, Free, 24-Hour Urine Collection (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of cortisol, a stress hormone, in your saliva over a 24-hour period. It helps assess how your body naturally produces cortisol without relying on blood or saliva samples at specific times.
["Assesses natural cortisol production to detect chronic stress or adrenal dysfunction."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 51491-9
- Short code
- Cortis sp4 p chal Sal-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Cortis sp4 p chal 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 Used
Saliva cortisol testing is often used to diagnose conditions like Cushing’s syndrome (excess cortisol) or adrenal insufficiency (low cortisol). Unlike blood tests, it reflects free cortisol levels in saliva, which can be more accurate for detecting circadian rhythms and stress-related fluctuations.
How the Test Works
You’ll collect saliva samples throughout the day in a provided container. The test measures cortisol concentration in each sample, which is then averaged over 24 hours to provide a comprehensive picture of your cortisol levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but avoid caffeine or alcohol for 24 hours before collecting samples. Wear comfortable clothing and carry your collection kit with you for convenience.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll collect saliva samples at home by spitting into the container at regular intervals (e.g., every 2–4 hours). Return the samples to your healthcare provider within the specified timeframe for analysis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated 24-hour saliva cortisol may indicate Cushing’s syndrome, chronic stress, or other hypercortisolism conditions. Low levels could suggest adrenal insufficiency, pituitary disorders, or medications affecting cortisol production. This test helps rule out conditions that disrupt normal cortisol rhythms.
Short name
Saliva Cortisol (24h)
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can I take medications 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