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Test Code CORT Cortisol Total, Serum

Performing Laboratory

ChristianaCare:

  • Newark Campus
  • Wilmington Campus

Methodology

Electrochemiluminescence

Specimen Requirements

Container/Tube:  4.5 mL Lithium Heparin (Mint Green top PST Gel) tube

Acceptable: 5.0 mL SST (Gold top) tube or 6.0 mL Serum (Red top) tube

Specimen:  Full tube
Collection Instructions:  See “Cosyntropin (Cortrosyn®) Stimulation Test” and “Dexamethasone Suppression Test” in “Special Instructions” for specimen collection.

Note:  Label tube with patient’s full name and 1 additional unique patient identifier such as date of birth, medical record number, emergency ID number, or financial number. Date and time of draw, collector’s initials, and type of specimen are also required.

Reference Values

8 a.m.:  6.2-19.4 mcg/dL
4 p.m.:  2.3-11.9 mcg/dL

Note:  Prednisone, prednisolone, and methylprednisolone cause false positive elevations of cortisol levels.

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday

Routine Turnaround Time:  8 hours

STAT Turnaround Time:  1 hour

Special Instructions