Cortisol LabCorp

Cortisol is the main adrenal glucorticoid and plays a central role in glucose metabolism and in the body's response to stress. Adrenal cortisol production is regulated by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which is synthesized by the pituitary gland in response to hypothalamic corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). Serum cortisol in turn inhibits the production of both CRH and ACTH (negative feedback loop). This system self-regulates to control he proper level of cortisol production. The coordinated stimulatory and inhibitory connections between CRH, ACTH, and cortisol are referred to as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Cortisol is thought to be most accurate when tested through saliva, while most other hormones are more accurate with blood testing (serum). Also see: 4-Tube Salivary Cortisol for a more commonly regarded cortisol test.