What is Cortisol PM?
Cortisol is a vital hormone that is produced by the adrenal gland and is located on top of the kidneys in response to stress or low glucose levels in the blood. It plays a significant role in the normal functioning of the immune system, metabolism, blood pressure regulation, and the body’s response to stress. It is also essential to control the inflammation. Cortisol levels fluctuate throughout the day being the highest in the morning and the lowest in the evening.
The cortisol PM test measures the levels of cortisol in the evening. If the levels of cortisol are not in the normal range it indicates that the patient is suffering from various health issues including adrenal gland-related disorders, Cushing’s syndrome and Addison’s disease.
How is the Test Performed?
The cortisol PM test involves taking a simple blood draw from the vein and sending it to the laboratory for further analysis.
Preparation
- Avoid drinking caffeine for at least 24 hours before the test
- Patients should avoid strenuous exercise and stress before the test.
- Take a normal routine sleep before the test.
- The doctor might advise you to stop taking certain medications that affect the results.
Sample collection
- A trained technologist draws blood from the vein using a needle and transfers it to a chemically treated tube.
Laboratory Analysis
- A skilled technician analyzes the sample using highly sensitive techniques such as high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. (HPLC-MS/MS)
What are the symptoms that prompt this test?
The healthcare provider warrants this test if a person is showing symptoms of conditions associated with adrenal gland dysfunction;
Symptoms in Newborns
- Extreme thirst
- Hypoglycemia
- Reduces chances to live
Symptoms in Adolescents
- Extreme fatigue
- Early onset of puberty or a delayed puberty
- Excessive weight gain or loss
Symptoms in Women
- Weight gain without known reason particularly in the abdominal region
- Menstrual cycle with an irregular pattern
- Weakness and fatigue
- Skin thinning
- Bruising easily
Symptoms in Men
- Low levels of energy
- Decreased libido
- Weight changes without a known reason
- Weakness of the muscles
What are Normal Ranges for This Test?
The cortisol levels vary throughout the day, the levels are at their peak in the morning and gradually decrease with time. The generally accepted reference range is given below;
Infants– 1 to 5 mcg/dL
Children (Pre-Puberty) – 1 to 4 mcg/dL
Adults – 5 to 3 mcg/dL
**The above-given reference ranges may vary according to the test assay used in the laboratory. **
What Happens if Test Results Show Abnormal Levels?
The abnormal level of the cortisol PM test is suggestive of an underlying health condition that requires early management and treatment
High Cortisol Levels
- Cushing’s disease- tumor in the pituitary
- Prolonged Stress
- Hyperactive activity
Low Cortisol Levels
- Addison’s disease
- Chronic fatigue
Follow-up Tests
- Dexamethasone suppression test
- ACTH stimulation test
- Imaging studies
- Lifestyle modification
- Surgery
