Compare this test’s laboratory options
Saliva Cortisol
Quest Diagnostics1 test optionFrom $102.08
Saliva Cortisol
Quest DiagnosticsCatalog information reviewed: August 24, 2026 by the Sunridge Medical clinical team.
What this laboratory test evaluates
DetailsCortisol, 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 ResourcesReference: Fleseriu M, et al. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol. 2021;9(12):847-875.
Additional test information
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.
Collection and processing
- Sample type: Saliva
- 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 Saliva. 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
DetailsCortisol, 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 ResourcesReference: Fleseriu M, et al. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol. 2021;9(12):847-875.
Additional 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.
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, LC/MS, Saliva