Cortisol, LC/MS (Endocrine Sciences)
Use
The Cortisol, LC/MS (Endocrine Sciences) test is used to measure cortisol levels in the serum or plasma. Cortisol is a glucocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and is involved in various physiological processes including metabolism regulation, immune response modulation, and stress response. Abnormal cortisol levels can indicate disorders such as Addison's disease, Cushing's syndrome, and adrenal insufficiency, making the test important for diagnosing and monitoring these conditions.
Special Instructions
Serum or plasma must be separated from cells within 45 minutes of venipuncture and sent in a plastic transport tube. To avoid delays in turnaround time when requesting multiple tests on frozen samples, please submit separate frozen specimens for each test requested.
Limitations
As with any laboratory test, factors such as sample handling, timing of sample collection, and patient condition can affect test results. The minimum volume may not allow for repeat testing, and the stability of the specimen under various storage conditions should be considered to ensure accurate results. The test does not differentiate between endogenous and exogenous cortisol.
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2143-6
- 2143-6
Result Turnaround Time
4-10 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.1 mL
Container
Gel-barrier tube, red-top tube, lavender-top (EDTA) tube or green-top (heparin) tube
Collection Instructions
Serum/plasma must be separated from cells within 45 minutes of venipuncture. Send serum/plasma in a plastic transport tube.
Storage Instructions
Freeze
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 3 years |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant