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Cortisol, A.M.
Quest Diagnostics1 test optionFrom $23.69
Cortisol, A.M.
Quest DiagnosticsCatalog information reviewed: August 24, 2026 by the Sunridge Medical clinical team.
What this laboratory test evaluates
Cortisol, A.M.
This test measures the level of cortisol in the blood in the morning when it's typically highest. High levels of cortisol may indicate Cushing's Disease, while low levels could suggest Addison's Disease (adrenal insufficiency), both of which affect your adrenal glands.
What patients is this test right for?This test may be recommended for individuals showing symptoms of either high or low cortisol levels.
High Cortisol Symptoms:• Weight gain, especially around the midsection and upper back
• Muscle weakness
• Thin skin that bruises easily
• High blood pressure
• Mood swings, which show as anxiety, depression, or irritability
Low Cortisol Symptoms:• Fatigue
• Low blood pressure
• Weight loss
• Muscle weakness
• Darkening of the skin in certain areas
What type of sample is required for this test?1 mL serum.
A morning blood sample is needed to accurately measure cortisol levels.
Test Resources https://www.questdiagnostics.com/healthcare-professionals/clinical-education-center/faq/faq294
Additional test information
Cortisol, A.M. – This test measures the level of cortisol in the blood in the morning when it's typically highest. High levels of cortisol may indicate Cushing's Disease, while low levels could suggest Addison's Disease (adrenal insufficiency), both of which affect your adrenal glands.
Collection and processing
- Sample type: Serum
- Fasting: No
- Estimated laboratory processing: Results should be available in 2 – 5 business days after the sample is collected
How Sunridge uses laboratory information
Sunridge considers the medical question, symptoms, history, medications, prior results, and whether the finding could change care before recommending testing. A laboratory result is not interpreted in isolation and does not establish a diagnosis by itself.
Before requesting this test
Availability, collection requirements, eligibility, and processing estimates can change. Sunridge reviews each request and, when appropriate, creates the order through Fullscript. Follow the current instructions supplied with the approved order.
Common questions about this laboratory test
- What sample does this test require?
- The listed sample type is Serum. Confirm current collection instructions in the approved order.
- Does this test require fasting?
- The current catalog record lists fasting as: No. Follow the instructions supplied with the approved order.
- How long does laboratory processing usually take?
- Results should be available in 2 – 5 business days after the sample is collected. Timing can change after collection or if a laboratory requires additional review.
About this test
Cortisol, A.M.
This test measures the level of cortisol in the blood in the morning when it's typically highest. High levels of cortisol may indicate Cushing's Disease, while low levels could suggest Addison's Disease (adrenal insufficiency), both of which affect your adrenal glands.
What patients is this test right for?This test may be recommended for individuals showing symptoms of either high or low cortisol levels.
High Cortisol Symptoms:• Weight gain, especially around the midsection and upper back
• Muscle weakness
• Thin skin that bruises easily
• High blood pressure
• Mood swings, which show as anxiety, depression, or irritability
Low Cortisol Symptoms:• Fatigue
• Low blood pressure
• Weight loss
• Muscle weakness
• Darkening of the skin in certain areas
What type of sample is required for this test?1 mL serum.
A morning blood sample is needed to accurately measure cortisol levels.
Test Resources https://www.questdiagnostics.com/healthcare-professionals/clinical-education-center/faq/faq294
Additional details
Cortisol, A.M. - This test measures the level of cortisol in the blood in the morning when it's typically highest. High levels of cortisol may indicate Cushing's Disease, while low levels could suggest Addison's Disease (adrenal insufficiency), both of which affect your adrenal glands.
Highlighted health areas
- Cardiovascular
- Women's health
- Hormones
- Adrenals and stress
- Men's health
Biomarkers and report focus
The exact analytes and report format can change. Confirm the current contents in the Fullscript order before payment.
- Cortisol (AM)