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HelpTest Code CORT Cortisol
Performing Laboratory
Hunterdon Medical Center Laboratory
Useful For
Cortisol is the primary glucocorticoid hormone synthesized and secreted by the adrenal cortex. Cortisol is essential for life, regulating carbohydrate, protein and lipid metabolism. Cortisol levels are regulated by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which is synthesized in the pituitary in response to corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). CRH is released in cyclic fashion by the hypothalmus, resulting in a diurnal pattern for cortisol and ACTH.
Special Instructions
Note: A Cortisol Timed Test ( link below) is available for the Dexamethasone Suppression Test and the Cortosyn Stimulation Test. ( CORTB )
Specimen Required
| Container/Tube | |
| Acceptable | PST (Li Hep) Gel- Mint Green Top |
| Acceptable | SST |
| Specimen Volume | 3.0 mL |
| Minimum Volume | 1.0 mL |
Specimen Type
Plasma/Serum
Specimen Transport Temperature
Ambient
Specimen Stability
| Specimen | Temperature | Time Frame |
| Plasma | Refrigerated 2-8°C | 4 days |
| Serum-gel tube | Refrigerated 2-8°C | 4 days |
Updated June 2020
Day(s) Test Set up
Monday through Sunday
Reference Values
Circulating cortisol levels follow a diurnal pattern in healthy individuals. Levels are highest in the morning and decline throughout the day.
| Time | Reference Values |
| AM: (7a-10a) | 6.20-19.40 µg/dL |
| PM: (3p-5p) | 2.30-11.90 µg/dL |
Methodology
ECLIA: Electrochemiluminescence immunoassay
CPT Code
82533
Loinc Code
2143-6