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Salivary Cortisol Mass Concentration (24-Hour Collection)

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

This test measures the amount of cortisol, a stress hormone, collected in your saliva over a full day. It helps assess how your body responds to stress and circadian rhythms.

Quick summary

["A 24-hour salivary cortisol test helps doctors understand your natural stress levels and sleep-wake patterns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
79250-7
Short code
EDDP CtO Sal Cfm-mCnc
Synonyms
EDDP CtO Sal Cfm-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
confirm
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 conditions like Cushing’s syndrome, adrenal insufficiency, or irregular stress responses. It’s also useful for evaluating sleep disorders or chronic stress-related issues that standard blood cortisol tests might miss.

How the Test Works

You’ll collect saliva samples at home in small containers throughout the day, typically every few hours. The samples are then sent to a lab for analysis. This method avoids the variability of blood cortisol, which can spike or drop based on time of day or stress triggers.

Preparation and Collection

No special preparation is needed, but avoid brushing your teeth or eating/drinking immediately before collecting samples. Follow your lab’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results. If you’re taking medications that affect cortisol levels, inform your doctor.

What to Expect After the Test

Results are usually ready within a few days to a week. Your doctor will interpret them in the context of your symptoms and medical history. Low or high cortisol levels may prompt further testing or treatment adjustments.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Salivary Cortisol

Frequently asked questions

What does a low cortisol level mean?
Low cortisol levels may indicate adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease) or conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome. It can also signal problems with your pituitary gland, which regulates cortisol production. Your doctor may recommend additional tests or treatments to manage symptoms.
What does a high cortisol level mean?
High cortisol levels often point to Cushing’s syndrome, which can cause weight gain, fatigue, or high blood pressure. It may also suggest chronic stress or certain medications. Treatment depends on the underlying cause, which your doctor will determine.
How often should I get this test?
This test is typically done once or twice a year if you have a known condition affecting cortisol levels. If you’re asymptomatic but suspect stress-related issues, your doctor may recommend it as part of a broader evaluation.
  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