Cortisol Test Test
A cortisol test measures the level of cortisol in your blood, urine, or saliva. Cortisol is a hormone that helps your body respond to stress, reduce inflammation, control blood sugar and metabolism, and regulate blood pressure. Abnormal levels may indicate problems with your adrenal or pituitary glands.
What this test measures
A cortisol test measures the level of cortisol in your blood, urine (pee), or saliva (spit). Cortisol is a hormone made by your adrenal glands, two small glands above your kidneys. It affects almost every organ and tissue in your body.
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Higher-than-normal results
High levels of cortisol may be a sign that you have Cushing's syndrome. It may be caused by taking high doses of certain steroid medicines for a long time, tumors that make extra ACTH, or tumors in your adrenal glands that make extra cortisol.
Lower-than-normal results
Low levels of cortisol may mean you have Addison disease or secondary adrenal insufficiency. Common causes include autoimmune diseases, certain infections like tuberculosis or HIV, problems with your pituitary gland, traumatic brain injury, or surgical removal of your pituitary gland.
Frequently asked questions
What is a cortisol test?
A cortisol test measures the level of cortisol in your blood, urine, or saliva. Cortisol is a hormone that affects almost every organ and tissue in your body.
Why might I need a cortisol test?
A cortisol test is used to help diagnose or rule out conditions that cause too much or too little cortisol, such as Cushing's syndrome, Addison disease, or secondary adrenal insufficiency.
What does a high cortisol level mean?
High levels of cortisol may be a sign of Cushing's syndrome. It can be caused by long-term use of steroid medicines, tumors that make extra ACTH, or tumors in your adrenal glands.
What does a low cortisol level mean?
Low levels of cortisol may mean you have Addison disease or secondary adrenal insufficiency. Causes include autoimmune diseases, infections, pituitary gland problems, or traumatic brain injury.
Can other factors affect cortisol levels?
Yes. Stress, pregnancy, exercise, hot and cold temperatures, and certain medicines like birth control pills can affect cortisol levels.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: Cortisol Test — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.