Cortisol, Saliva, Free, 24-Hour Urine Collection (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of cortisol, a natural steroid hormone, in your saliva over 24 hours or in your urine. It helps assess how well your body produces cortisol, which plays a role in managing stress, metabolism, and immune response.
["Helps diagnose conditions linked to cortisol imbalance, such as Cushing’s syndrome or adrenal insufficiency."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58695-8
- Short code
- Cortis sp8 p chal Sal-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Cortis sp8 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 Done
Your doctor may recommend this test if they suspect an issue with cortisol production, such as an overactive or underactive adrenal gland. It can also be used to monitor conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or adrenal insufficiency. Saliva cortisol testing is often used for 24-hour monitoring, while urine cortisol may be used in specific diagnostic contexts.
How the Test Works
For saliva testing, you’ll collect small samples of saliva over a full day, typically in multiple containers. For urine testing, you’ll provide a 24-hour urine sample. The collected samples are then analyzed to measure cortisol levels. The results help determine if cortisol levels are consistently too high or too low.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for saliva cortisol testing, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or supplements that could affect results. For urine cortisol testing, ensure you collect all urine over a full day, starting and ending with a void. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully.
What to Expect During the Test
The test is simple and painless. Saliva samples are collected by spitting into containers, while urine samples are collected in a special container. No needles or invasive procedures are involved.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High cortisol levels in saliva or urine may indicate conditions like Cushing’s syndrome, where the body produces too much cortisol. Low cortisol levels could suggest adrenal insufficiency or other adrenal gland disorders. These tests help diagnose and monitor these conditions, guiding treatment decisions.
Short name
Saliva/Cortisol Urine Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a high cortisol level mean?
What does a low cortisol level mean?
Can stress affect cortisol test results?
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