What Blood Test Checks Cortisol?

Cortisol Level is the type of blood test used to measure the amount of cortisol in the body. Cortisol is a "stress" hormone that is produced in the adrenal cortex of our brain.

Preparation

Prior to the test, you will be advised to stop taking medications, particularly those containing estrogen, synthetic glucocorticoids, androgen and phenytoin.

Reason

Testing is done to determine if the pituitary and adrenal glands are functioning properly. It can help detect the presence of certain diseases in a person.

Procedure

It is done the same way as a regular blood test. Blood will be extracted through the veins by means of a needle.

Normal Levels

The normal cortisol level is between 6 and 23 microgram per deciliter.

Results

If the cortisol level is high, it would mean that the person could be suffering from Cushing's disease, hyperthyroidism or the presence of tumor. If the cortisol level is low, it could mean that the person has Addison's disease or hypothyroidism.

Other Factors

A high cortisol level may also be due to pregnancy, obesity and stress.