CORTISOL

Description

  • At 8 AM : 5.0 -25 mg/dl

  • At 4 PM : 2.5 -12.5 mg/dl

Clinical significance

  • Cortisol is the most abundant circulating steroid and the major glucocorticoid secreted by the adrenal complex. Physiologically effective in anti inflammatory activity and blood pressure maintenance, it is also involved in gluconeogenesis, calcium absorption and the secretion of gastric acid and pepsin.
  • Cortisol levels are often measured to evaluate the pituitary function and/or adrenal function. Also called hydrocortisone or compound F. The level of cortisol in the blood normally rises and falls in a diurnal variation pattern.
  • The secretion of cortisol is controlled by the pituitary gland. This produces a different hormone called ACTH or corticotrophin, which goes round the blood stream to the adrenals and activates the cortisol-secreting cells.
  • Abnormalities of cortisol secretion can result from disease in either the pituitary gland or the adrenals. If the pituitary gland does not make enough ACTH the adrenals will fail to make enough cortisol, and if there is a disease of the adrenals (Addison's disease) there will also be insufficient cortisol released into the blood. Similarly overactivity of either organ can cause too much cortisol to be made and cause Cushing's syndrome.
  • Cortisol is a very important hormone. Indeed, besides insulin, it is the only hormone which is vital to keep you alive. It is needed to maintain the general functioning of the body metabolism and to keep a normal blood pressure. Absence of hydrocortisone results in lethargy, malaise and low blood pressure, and when combined with another disorder such as an infection or a stomach disorder can rapidly result in collapse and even death.
  • Cortisol levels helps in diagnosis of Cushing's disease, Differential diagnosis of hypopituitarism, Differential diagnosis of adrenal hyperplasia.

When to get tested

  • When symptoms are suggestive of High level of cortisol and Cushing syndrome (Hypertension, high blood sugar, obesity, Fragile skin, Purple streaks on the abdomen, Muscle wasting, Osteoporosis)
  • When symptoms are suggestive of Low levels of cortisol or Adrenal Insufficiency or Addisons disease (weight loss, muscle weakness, fatigue, Low blood pressure, Abdominal pain, Dark patches in skin)

Elevated level

  • Adrenal tumour
  • Cushing's syndrome
  • Ectopic ACTH-producing tumours
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Glucocorticoid resistance
  • Acute stress
  • Pregnancy
  • Depression
  • Hypoglycaemia
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Estrogen therapy

Decreased level

  • Addison's disease
  • Secondary adrenal Insufficiency

Profile

ALL TEST

Turn your phone into a full-featured Ayurveda clinic

Reference library, prescription studio, classical texts and everyday productivity tools — all in one app. Try Bhishak with a trial subscription; unlock the full experience once you’re in.

Get it on Google Play
Scroll