Measuring Cortisol – Levels, Methods & Meaning
Measuring cortisol determines the level of this stress hormone in blood, urine, or saliva. The test helps diagnose adrenal disorders such as Cushing syndrome or adrenal insufficiency.
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Measuring cortisol determines the level of this stress hormone in blood, urine, or saliva. The test helps diagnose adrenal disorders such as Cushing syndrome or adrenal insufficiency.
What Does Measuring Cortisol Mean?
Cortisol is a vital hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. It regulates metabolism, the immune system, and the body's response to stress. Cortisol measurement is a diagnostic procedure in which cortisol levels are determined in blood, urine, or saliva to detect dysfunction of the adrenal glands or the pituitary gland (hypophysis).
When Is Cortisol Measured?
A cortisol test is recommended when a physician suspects a hormonal imbalance. Common indications include:
- Suspected Cushing syndrome (elevated cortisol levels)
- Suspected adrenal insufficiency or Addison's disease (low cortisol levels)
- Chronic fatigue and unexplained weight gain or loss
- High blood pressure of unclear origin
- Menstrual cycle irregularities
- Osteoporosis at a young age
- Monitoring of cortisone therapy
Methods for Measuring Cortisol
Cortisol in Blood (Serum)
The most common method is a blood draw, ideally performed in the morning between 7 and 9 a.m., as cortisol levels follow a natural daily rhythm known as the circadian rhythm. Levels are highest in the morning and lowest in the evening. Normal morning values typically range from approximately 170 to 540 nmol/l (6–20 µg/dl), depending on the laboratory.
Cortisol in Urine (24-Hour Collection)
The 24-hour urinary free cortisol test involves collecting all urine over a full day to measure total cortisol output. This method reflects average daily cortisol production and is particularly useful in diagnosing Cushing syndrome.
Cortisol in Saliva
Salivary cortisol measurement, especially at midnight, is a non-invasive and reliable method. An elevated late-night salivary cortisol value is a sensitive indicator of Cushing syndrome. Saliva tests can conveniently be performed at home.
Dexamethasone Suppression Test
In the dexamethasone suppression test, a synthetic corticosteroid (dexamethasone) is taken in the evening, and cortisol levels are measured the following morning. In a healthy individual, dexamethasone suppresses cortisol production. If suppression does not occur, this may indicate Cushing syndrome.
Factors That Influence Cortisol Levels
Several factors can affect test results and must be considered when interpreting values:
- Stress and physical exertion before the blood draw
- Use of cortisone or steroid medications
- Hormonal contraceptives (estrogens increase the transport protein CBG)
- Sleep deprivation and shift work
- Pregnancy
- Conditions such as depression or alcoholism
Interpreting the Results
Elevated cortisol levels may indicate Cushing syndrome, significant stress, severe illness, or steroid use. Low cortisol levels may suggest adrenal insufficiency (e.g., Addison's disease) or pituitary underfunction. Results should always be interpreted by a specialist in endocrinology, as single measurements are rarely conclusive on their own.
References
- German Society of Endocrinology (DGE) - Guidelines for the Diagnosis of Cushing's Syndrome and Adrenal Insufficiency, 2022.
- Nieman LK et al. - The Diagnosis of Cushing's Syndrome: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2008.
- World Health Organization (WHO) - Endocrine Disorders: Diagnostic and Management Guidelines, 2021.
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