Cortisol (Evening Sample) Test
The cortisol (evening sample) test is used to measure the level of cortisol, a crucial stress hormone that initiates a protective response to a perceived threat or danger.
Cortisol plays a crucial role in controlling different bodily functions such as metabolism, the inflammatory response, the immune response, and managing stress. Elevated or decreased cortisol levels can have negative effects. Thus, getting this test done is recommended to evaluate cortisol production and to help diagnose Cushing’s syndrome and Addison’s disease.
Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome (too much cortisol)
Weight gain
Thin arms and legs
Round face
Increased fat around the base of the neck
Easy bruising
Muscle weakness
Symptoms of Addison’s disease and adrenal insufficiency (not enough cortisol)
Long-lasting fatigue
Muscle weakness
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Abdominal pain
What is the Cortisol (Evening Sample) test used for?
This test is performed
To diagnose conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome, Addison’s disease, or secondary adrenal insufficiency
Preparation for the test
Prior to the test, it may be necessary to restrict strenuous activities for a period of 12 to 24 hours. Please tell your healthcare provider if you are taking any medications before undergoing the test, as certain medications may interfere with the accuracy of the test results.
Interpretation of the test results
Test results may differ depending on your age, gender, health history, and diagnostic centre. The test result will indicate the cortisol level in your blood during the test. Typically, cortisol levels are highest in the morning and lowest around midnight. The normal range for cortisol level around 4 p.m. is 3 to 10 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL).
Deviation from normal results indicates the following:
- Elevated cortisol levels could indicate the presence of Cushing's syndrome, which can result from prolonged use of specific steroid medications to manage conditions like asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus. Additionally, it may be triggered by tumours in the pituitary gland or adrenal glands that lead to excess cortisol production.
- Insufficient levels of cortisol could indicate the presence of Addison’s disease or secondary adrenal insufficiency caused by factors like autoimmune disorders, specific infections like tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS, or issues with the pituitary gland.
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the cortisol (evening sample) test?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm using a small needle. Usually, this procedure does not take more than 5 minutes. Throughout the day, the level of cortisol hormone in the body undergoes fluctuations, rising and falling at different times. To determine the evening peak, a blood sample is collected between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM, referred to as the cortisol (evening sample).
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the cortisol (evening sample) test?
The test result for cortisol (evening sample) is usually available within 1-3 days after the sample collection. This duration may vary depending upon the diagnostic clinic.
Are there any risks associated with the cortisol (evening sample) test?
No, there are no associated risks with the cortisol (evening sample) test. It is a simple blood test that carries minimal risks, such as experiencing a slight sting or bruise at the needle insertion site.
What medicines can interfere with the cortisol (evening sample) test?
Certain medications, including steroids, estrogen, androgen, and anti-seizure drugs, have the potential to impact cortisol levels. Therefore, it is important to disclose all the medications you are currently using to your healthcare provider.
How often should the cortisol (evening sample) test be done?
The frequency at which the cortisol (evening sample) should be conducted will be decided by your healthcare provider, who will consider your health status and whether you are being closely monitored for any specific disease condition.
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