Cortisol tests are usually prescribed to look for problems with the adrenal glands or pituitary gland, as cortisol is a hormone produced and regulated by these glands, so when there is a change in normal cortisol values, it is normal that there is a change in this test can diagnose diseases such as Cushing syndrome , in the case of high cortisol or Addison’s disease, in the case of low cortisol, for example.
Cortisol is a hormone that helps control stress, reduce inflammation, improve immune system function and help metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, while keeping blood sugar constant. Understand what the hormone cortisol is and what it’s for.
There are 3 different types of cortisol tests, including
The concentration of cortisol in the body varies throughout the day, which is why two samples are usually taken: one between 7 and 10 hours, called a basal cortisol test or 8-hour cortisol test, and the other at 4 pm, called the 16 hour trial. hourly cortisol test, and is usually done when excess hormones in the body are suspected.
Cortisol test preparation is especially important in cases where a blood sample is needed. In such cases, it is recommended to:
In addition, in any type of cortisol test, you should tell your doctor what medicines you are taking, especially corticosteroids, such as dexamethasone, as they may affect the results.
In the case of a saliva cortisol test, saliva should be taken within 2 hours of waking; However, if done after a main meal, wait 3 hours and avoid brushing your teeth during this time.
The reference values for cortisol vary depending on the material collected and the laboratory where the test was performed, which may be:
Men: less than 60g per day
Women: less than 45g per day
Between 6 a. m. and 10 a. m. : less than 0. 75 g/ml
Between 4 p. m. and 8 p. m. : less than 0. 24 g/mL
Tomorrow: 8. 7 to 22 g /dL
Afternoon: less than 10g/dL
Changes in blood cortisol values may indicate health problems, such as pituitary tumors, Addison’s disease, or Cushing syndrome, for example, when cortisol is high. Find out what are the main causes of high cortisol levels and how to treat them.
Cortisol test results may be modified due to heat, cold, infections, excessive exercise, obesity, pregnancy, or stress, and may not be a sign of illness. Therefore, when the test result is changed, it may be necessary to repeat the test to see if any factors have interfered.