Cortisol,LC/MS, Saliva

Quest Diagnostics

Sample type: Saliva

Requires fasting: No

Sample collection required at Quest Diagnostics location

Details

This test measures the level of cortisol in saliva, which can be particularly telling when taken late at night. It's a key tool in screening for Cushing syndrome, a condition where the body makes too much cortisol. If two or more positive results are received, it could confirm Cushing syndrome. This test is also used to check if Cushing disease comes back after treatment.

Biomarker summary

Cortisol, LC/MS, Saliva

Additional details

Estimated days for results: Results should be available in 2 - 5 business days after the sample is collected

Details

Cortisol, LC/MS, Saliva - This test measures the level of cortisol in saliva, which can be particularly telling when taken late at night. It's a key tool in screening for Cushing syndrome, a condition where your body makes too much cortisol. If two or more positive results are received, it could confirm Cushing syndrome. This test is also used to check if Cushing disease comes back after treatment.

What patients is this test right for?

This test is ideal for anyone being screened for Cushing syndrome, especially if they need to provide multiple samples over time. It's also recommended yearly for those who've had pituitary surgery for Cushing disease to monitor for recurrence.

Low Sensitivity Warning:

Not recommended for screening in individuals with abnormal day and night cycles.
Has low sensitivity for detecting adrenal tumors.

What type of sample is required for this test?

0.5 mL of saliva, collected in a Salivette® Cortisol with blue screw-cap.

Other Tests:

Alongside this test, urinary free cortisol and dexamethasone suppression tests may also be considered based on your specific situation.

Interpreting Results:

Results should be viewed in the context of your overall health, family history, and any other symptoms you may have.

Test Resources

Reference: Fleseriu M, et al. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol. 2021;9(12):847-875.

Average sample processing time

2–5 business days

Reference range

8-10 AM 0.04-0.56 mcg/dL
Noon-2 PM ≤0.21 mcg/dL
4-6 PM ≤0.15 mcg/dL
10 PM-1 AM ≤0.09 mcg/dL

Health categories

Patient instructions

Collection Options with Fullscript
Sample collection requires a test kit that can be picked up at a nearby Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Center.

Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Centers (PSC)

Location: Visit a nearby Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Center.
Cost: $10 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here. Appointments are recommended to reduce wait times. Walk-ins are accepted, but may experience delays. Aim to arrive 10 minutes before your appointment.
Collection Instructions:

Bring a valid ID.
Bring your digital or printed requisition form, available in the Labs tab of your Fullscript account.

Check-in: Scan the QR code from your confirmation email or follow kiosk instructions.
More Info: Quest Diagnostics collection guide

In-office phlebotomy instructions

Specimen

Preferred Specimen(s): 0.5 mL saliva collected in a Salivette® Cortisol with blue screw-cap
Alternative: NA
Minimum Volume: 0.2 mL
Collection Instructions: NA

Storage and shipping instructions