A cortisol test is done to measure the
level of the
hormone cortisol in the blood.
The normal values listed here—called a reference range—are just a guide. These ranges vary from lab to lab, and your lab may have a different range for what's normal. Your lab report should contain the range your lab uses. Also, your doctor will evaluate your results based on your health and other factors. This means that a value that falls outside the normal values listed here may still be normal for you or your lab.
- A high level of cortisol in the blood can
Cushing's syndrome, a disorder that can be caused by
overactive adrenal glands, an adrenal gland tumor, some types of
cancer, or long-term use of
- A high blood cortisol level can be caused by severe liver or
- Pregnancy or birth control pills
can also cause a high blood cortisol level.
- Conditions such as recent surgery, illness, injury, or
whole-body infection (sepsis) can
cause high cortisol levels.
- A low level of cortisol in the blood can be caused by:
- Problems that affect the adrenal glands directly, such as Addison's disease or a tuberculosis infection of the adrenal glands.
- Problems with the pituitary gland that affect the adrenal glands, such as cancer or a head injury.