Name of the Procedure:

Cortisol; Total

• Common Names: Cortisol Blood Test, Serum Cortisol Test
• Technical Term: Serum Cortisol Assay

Summary

The total cortisol test is a blood test used to measure the level of cortisol in your blood. Cortisol is a hormone produced by your adrenal glands that plays a key role in stress response, metabolism, and immune function.

Purpose

This test helps diagnose conditions related to abnormal cortisol levels, such as Cushing's syndrome (high cortisol levels) or Addison's disease (low cortisol levels). The goal is to assess adrenal function and detect hormonal imbalances that can affect overall health.

Indications

• Persistent fatigue
• Weight loss or gain
• High blood pressure
• Muscle weakness
• Unexplained mood swings
• Abnormal blood sugar levels
• Suspected adrenal or pituitary gland disorders

Preparation

• Fasting may be required for 8-10 hours before the test.
• Avoid strenuous exercise and stress the day before and the day of the test.
• Inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking, as some can affect cortisol levels.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare professional will clean the site where the blood will be drawn, usually from a vein in your arm.
2. A tourniquet is placed around your upper arm to fill the veins with blood.
3. A needle is inserted into the vein to collect a blood sample in one or more vials.
4. The needle is removed, and pressure is applied to stop any bleeding.
5. The sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Tools & Equipment:

• Needle and syringe or vacutainer system
• Alcohol swab
• Tourniquet
• Blood collection vials

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 10-15 minutes.

Setting

This test is usually performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or diagnostic laboratory.

Personnel

• Phlebotomist or nurse to draw the blood
• Laboratory technician to analyze the sample
• Doctor to interpret results

Risks and Complications

• Minor pain or bruising at the needle site
• Rare risks include fainting, hematoma, or infection

Benefits

• Provides essential information about adrenal gland function
• Helps diagnose disorders and guide treatment planning
• Results are typically available within a few days

Recovery

• Minimal recovery is needed; you can return to normal activities immediately.
• Keep the bandage on the needle site for a few hours to prevent bleeding.

Alternatives

• 24-hour urine cortisol test: Measures cortisol excreted in urine over a full day.

• Salivary cortisol test: Non-invasive sample collected at specific times of the day to study cortisol rhythm.

  Pros and Cons:

• Blood test is quick and easy but may cause anxiety in needle-fearful patients.
• Urine and saliva tests are non-invasive but may take longer and be less precise.

Patient Experience

• You may feel a brief sting or pinch when the needle is inserted.
• Some mild discomfort or bruising at the puncture site may occur afterward.
• Most patients find the procedure to be quick and relatively painless.
• Pain management and comfort measures are typically not necessary due to the simplicity of the procedure.