Cortisol by LC-MS/MS, Serum or Plasma
Also known as: CORT TMS
Use
This test measures cortisol levels in serum or plasma using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Monitoring cortisol levels is clinically significant for diagnosing adrenal insufficiencies, evaluating hypopituitarism, and guiding the management of conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or Addison’s disease. This quantitative assay provides reliable and precise measurement of cortisol concentrations in serum samples, aiding clinicians in the assessment of adrenal function and overall hormonal balance in patients.
Special Instructions
Specimen collection should occur between 8-10 a.m. for optimal cortisol level assessment. Separate serum or plasma from cells as soon as possible, preferably within 2 hours of collection, to ensure sample integrity. Use the ARUP Standard Transport Tube for storing and transporting samples. This test is approved for use in New York State.
Limitations
The test is not cleared or approved by the US FDA, although it is performed in a CLIA-certified laboratory intended for clinical purposes. Factors influencing test results may include improper specimen handling or storage, timing of sample collection, and adherence to pre-test instructions, particularly for conditions requiring post-stimulation measurements. Ambient, refrigerated, and frozen stability constraints must be adhered to for accurate test outcomes. Certain medications or medical conditions affecting cortisol levels can also impact test accuracy and should be considered when interpreting results.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2143-6
Result Turnaround Time
2-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Collect specimen using a serum separator tube, lavender (EDTA), pink (K2EDTA), or green (sodium or lithium heparin) tube. Separate serum or plasma from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection.
Patient Preparation
Collect specimen between 8-10 a.m.
Storage Instructions
Freeze specimen for transport.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 week |
| Refrigerated | 1 week |
| Frozen | 6 months |