What is the purpose of this test?
The Cortisol, Free, Total With CBG Blood Test is a diagnostic examination that measures cortisol levels in the blood. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland in response to stress. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and the immune system. The test is usually ordered to evaluate adrenal gland function or to diagnose conditions related to cortisol production. It can also help detect and monitor conditions such as Cushing's syndrome or Addison's disease. The CBG (Corticosteroid Binding Globulin) component of the test measures the amount of protein in the blood that binds to cortisol. This helps to determine the amount of cortisol that is free and available for use by the body.
The Cortisol, Free, Total With CBG Blood Test includes the following:
Cortisol, Total - Cortisol is a hormone that is produced by the adrenal glands. It is known as the "stress hormone," as it is released in response to stress. Cortisol plays a crucial role in regulating the body's response to stress, controlling blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and immune system. Imbalanced cortisol levels can lead to several health problems like fatigue, weight gain, and mood changes. Healthcare providers use cortisol total test to measure the amount of cortisol in a patient's blood to diagnose and treat conditions related to cortisol levels.
Cortisol-Binding Globulin (CBG) - Cortisol-Binding Globulin (CBG) is a protein that binds to the hormone cortisol in our blood. Cortisol is a stress hormone that is released in response to stress. When cortisol is bound to CBG, it is not able to carry out its functions. CBG helps to regulate the amount of cortisol in our body by keeping it in a bound form until it is needed. This helps to prevent excessive amounts of cortisol from circulating in our blood, which can be harmful to our health.
Free Cortisol - Free cortisol is a type of hormone that is produced by the adrenal gland. It is released into the bloodstream and helps regulate the body's response to stress, anxiety, and other emotional and physical stimuli. Unlike other forms of cortisol, free cortisol is not bound to proteins in the blood and is, therefore, able to move freely throughout the body. This makes it a useful marker for diagnosing certain medical conditions, such as Cushing's syndrome and Addison's disease.
Percent Free Cortisol - Percent Free Cortisol is a blood test that measures the amount of unbound cortisol in the bloodstream. Unbound cortisol is the active form of the hormone that can affect the body's response to stress. The test is used to diagnose conditions such as Cushing's syndrome or Addison's disease that can affect the body's cortisol production. It can also be used to monitor cortisol levels in people who are taking corticosteroid medications.
When should I order a Cortisol, Free, Total With CBG Blood Test?
Individuals may order this test if they have experienced symptoms of a cortisol-related condition, such as Cushing's syndrome or Addison's disease. Common signs or symptoms of a cortisol-related condition include:
- Weight gain, especially around the midsection
- High blood pressure
- Muscle weakness
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Increased thirst and urination
- Reduced libido
- Infertility
- Acne
- Slow healing of wounds
- Thin and fragile skin
- Purple or pink stretch marks on the skin
- Increased susceptibility to infections
