Free Cortisol (FC)

What is cortisol and what is it used for in the body?

Cortisol is a hormone that is produced by the adrenal gland. It is involved in the regulation of many bodily functions, including metabolism, immune function, and stress response. Cortisol levels in the body vary throughout the day, with higher levels typically occurring in the morning and lower levels at night.

How is cortisol measured in the body?

Cortisol can be measured in the body through various laboratory tests, including blood tests, urine tests, and saliva tests. In these tests, cortisol levels are typically measured in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).

What is the normal range for cortisol levels in the body?

The normal range for cortisol levels in the body varies depending on the method used to measure it and the specific laboratory that performs the test. In general, normal cortisol levels in the blood are typically between 5 and 25 μg/dL. In urine, normal cortisol levels are typically between 20 and 130 μg/day. In saliva, normal cortisol levels are typically between 0.1 and 1.8 ng/mL.

What can cause abnormal cortisol levels in the body?

Abnormal cortisol levels in the body can be caused by a variety of factors, including medical conditions such as Cushing's syndrome (excess cortisol production) and Addison's disease (deficiency of cortisol), as well as certain medications and stress.

How is cortisol related to the diagnosis and treatment of Cushing's syndrome?

Cushing's syndrome is a condition that is characterized by high levels of cortisol in the body. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including the use of certain medications, tumors of the adrenal gland or pituitary gland, and abnormal production of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Cortisol levels can be measured as part of the diagnostic process for Cushing's syndrome, and treatment may involve medications, surgery, or radiation therapy.

How is cortisol related to the diagnosis and treatment of Addison's disease?

Addison's disease is a condition that is characterized by low levels of cortisol in the body. It can be caused by autoimmune conditions, infections, or tumors of the adrenal gland. Cortisol levels can be measured as part of the diagnostic process for Addison's disease, and treatment typically involves replacing the missing cortisol with hormone therapy.

Are there any potential side effects associated with cortisol testing?

There are generally no known side effects associated with cortisol testing. The test is noninvasive and requires only a small sample of blood, urine, or saliva, which is usually collected through a simple blood draw, urine sample, or saliva swab.