Cortisol — stress hormone and adrenal function test
The test determines the level of cortisol — the primary glucocorticoid hormone of the adrenal cortex. Cortisol regulates carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism, maintains blood pressure, immune response, water-salt balance, and stress adaptation. Used to diagnose adrenal diseases including hypercorticism (Cushing's syndrome) and adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease). Applied for sleep disorders, chronic fatigue, obesity, hypertension, depression, muscle weakness, fertility disorders.
What the test evaluates:
- Cortisol concentration in blood serum
- Adrenal cortex functional state
- Diurnal hormone secretion rhythm
Biomaterial: Venous blood
- Draw blood fasting in the morning (8:00-10:00)
- Exclude physical activity, stress, alcohol 24 hours before
- Maintain sleep and dietary routine if possible
Medications:
- Glucocorticoids, oral contraceptives, estrogens, anticonvulsants may affect results
- Medication discontinuation only by physician agreement
Recommended for:
- Suspected hyper- or hypocorticism, adrenal imbalance
- Chronic fatigue, depression, obesity, unstable blood pressure
- Resistant arterial hypertension
- Infertility or menstrual disorders related to hormonal imbalance
Elevated cortisol: Cushing's syndrome, chronic stress, obesity, type 2 diabetes, depression
Reduced cortisol: primary adrenal insufficiency, hypopituitarism, post-operative states
Cortisol is subject to diurnal rhythm: maximum in morning (6-10 AM), minimum in evening; blood draw time is critical for correct interpretation.
