Cortisol Urine

Cortisol test is used to diagnose Cushing’s Disease and Addison’s Disease.

Cortisol is a hormone that is secreted from the adrenal glands in a diurnal rhythm of secretion, meaning it levels peak around the same time in the morning and decreases as the day progresses. This hormone is plays a big role in multiple important bodily functions, such as in the metabolism of lipids, carbohydrates and proteins, the regulation of blood glucose and blood pressure and well as maintenance and regulation of the immune system. Cortisol tests are used to for the diagnosis of Cushings disease, which is too much cortisol, or Addisons disease, which is too little cortisol. Cortisol can be tested in multiple ways. This test measures the amount of cortisol in a 24 hour urine sample.

This test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Hypertension (Cushings)
• High blood sugar
• Obesity
• Purple streaks on the abdomen
• Muscle wasting and weakness
• Osteoporosis
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Low blood pressure (Addisons)
• Abdominal pain
• Dark patches of skin

Also Known As: Urinary Free Cortisol