Cortisol (Serum)
The adrenal stress hormone, measured for suspected Cushing's or Addison's disease.
Also known as: cortisol, morning cortisol, stress hormone
Price on request
We can collect this sample at your home, free of charge. Book a home visit.
- Turnaround
- 24 hours
- Preparation
- No fasting needed. Eat and drink normally.
- Sample
- Blood sample
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About this test
Cortisol follows a daily rhythm, peaking in the early morning and falling overnight, so the result is only interpretable against the time it was drawn. A high morning level raises the question of Cushing's syndrome and a low one of adrenal insufficiency; both usually need a dynamic test to confirm.
What it measures
- Serum cortisol at the stated sampling time
A note on results. A single test is one part of a clinical picture, not a diagnosis. Discuss your report with a qualified doctor, who will read it alongside your history and examination.
Related to
- General health
Often ordered with this
Chest X-Ray (PA View)
Standard chest film for cough, fever, breathlessness and pre-employment.
- Same day
- No fasting
Coagulation Profile (PT/INR, APTT)
How quickly your blood clots. Required before surgery and on warfarin.
- Same day
- No fasting
- Home collection