A cortisol level test measures the amount of cortisol in the blood. This hormone plays a crucial role in the body. Doctors use cortisol level tests to check for signs of Addison’s disease, Cushing’s syndrome, and adrenal function abnormalities. Learn about the cortisol level test and what the results indicate here.

A cortisol test is used to help diagnose medical conditions that cause too much or too little cortisol. These conditions include disorders that affect the adrenal glands: Cushing's syndrome is a disorder that happens when your body has too much cortisol over a long period of time.

6 to 23 micrograms per decilitre

The serum cortisol (7-9 AM) test measures the level of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, in the bloodstream during the morning hours when cortisol levels are typically at their peak. Here's how to interpret the results of a serum cortisol (7-9 AM) test: Normal Range: The normal range for serum cortisol levels in the morning (7-9 AM) is typically between 6 to 23 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL) or 166 to 635 nanomoles per liter (nmol/L). Reference ranges may vary slightly depending on the laboratory and the specific assay method used for testing. Interpretation: Normal Levels: Serum cortisol levels within the normal range during the morning hours indicate normal adrenal function and diurnal variation. Cortisol levels are typically highest in the morning, helping to regulate various physiological processes such as metabolism, immune function, and response to stress. Low Levels (Hypocortisolism): Serum cortisol levels below the normal range may indicate hypocortisolism, also known as adrenal insufficiency. Causes of hypocortisolism may include primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease), secondary adrenal insufficiency (due to pituitary or hypothalamic dysfunction), chronic stress, or long-term corticosteroid therapy. High Levels (Hypercortisolism): Serum cortisol levels above the normal range may indicate hypercortisolism, also known as Cushing syndrome. Causes of hypercortisolism may include adrenal tumors (such as cortisol-producing adenomas), pituitary tumors (causing excess adrenocorticotropic hormone, ACTH), exogenous corticosteroid use, or ectopic ACTH-producing tumors. Clinical Correlation: Interpretation of serum cortisol (7-9 AM) results should be done in conjunction with clinical assessment, including consideration of the patient's medical history, symptoms, and other laboratory findings. Additional tests or evaluations may be necessary to determine the underlying cause of abnormal serum cortisol levels and guide appropriate management. Dynamic Testing: In cases where serum cortisol levels are equivocal or inconclusive, dynamic testing may be performed to further evaluate adrenal function. This may include tests such as the cosyntropin stimulation test or the dexamethasone suppression test to assess adrenal responsiveness and differentiate between primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency or hypercortisolism.

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