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Cortisol, Capillary Blood — Mass Concentration

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

A capillary blood test that measures cortisol, a hormone that helps regulate stress response, blood sugar, and adrenal function.

Quick summary

["This test measures cortisol in a small blood sample collected by capillary puncture."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
69118-8
Short code
CT Scapula WO contr
Synonyms
CT Scapula WO contr
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct
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

What is this test?

Cortisol is a steroid hormone made by the adrenal glands. This test measures the amount of cortisol in blood obtained from a capillary puncture, such as a finger-prick sample.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when evaluating adrenal hormone production or the pituitary-adrenal stress-response system. Results may also be used in newborn screening or when a larger blood draw is difficult.

How is the test performed?

A small amount of blood is collected from the fingertip or heel, depending on the patient's age and the collection method. The laboratory then measures the cortisol concentration in the sample.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required, but cortisol naturally changes throughout the day and can rise with stress or illness. Follow any timing instructions from your clinician and do not stop medicines without medical advice.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Capillary blood cortisol

Frequently asked questions

Does this test require fasting?
Fasting is generally not required. However, collection time may matter because cortisol follows a daily rhythm.
Is a capillary blood sample different from a venous blood sample?
Yes. A capillary sample is usually collected from a fingertip or heel, while a venous sample is drawn from a vein. The laboratory's validated method and reference range determine how the result is interpreted.
Can stress affect the cortisol result?
Yes. Acute stress, illness, poor sleep, and strenuous activity can temporarily increase cortisol. Tell the clinician about anything that may have affected the sample.
  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