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Test Code U-CORT Cortisol, Urinary Free 24 Hour (24 CORT)

Useful For

Urine Free Cortisol is a sensitive test for the various types of adrenocortical dysfunction, particularly hypercortisolism (Cushing’s Syndrome).  This test is the preferred screening test for Cushing’s Syndrome.  This test has limited usefulness in the evaluation of adrenal insufficiency.

Synonyms/Keywords

24 CORT, Cortisol, Urinary Free, Urinary Free Cortisol

Specimen Requirements

Fasting Required Specimen Type Preferred Container/Tube Acceptable Container/Tube Specimen Volume Specimen Minimum Volume
(allows for 1 repeat)
Pediatric Minimum Volume
(no repeat)
No Urine, 24 Hour 24 hr urine jug - no preservative 24 hr urine jug with sulfamic acid preservative 10 mL aliquot from well mixed 24 hr urine 5 mL aliquot 2 mL aliquot

Collection/Processing Instructions

No special patient preparation is required, but avoid all forms of stress to the patient, since this may cause elevated Urinary Cortisol levels.  Indicate collection times.  Total volume must be measured, recorded and included with the test request.  Due to diurnal variations in urinary cortisol, collection must be 24 hours ± 2 hours. 

Specimen Stability Information

Specimen Type Temperature Time
Urine Refrigerate 1 week
 Freeze 1 month

Rejection Criteria

Collection must be 24 hours ± 2 hours
Random specimens

Test Components

24 hour Urine Cortisol

Test Information

This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by Marshfield Labs.  It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.  This test is used for clinical purposes.  It should not be regarded as investigational or for research.

 

Urine Free Cortisol is a sensitive test for the various types of adrenocortical dysfunction, particularly hypercortisolism (Cushing’s Syndrome).  This test is the preferred screening test for Cushing’s Syndrome.  This test has limited usefulness in the evaluation of adrenal insufficiency.  Pregnancy values may be elevated to twice the upper limit of normal.

Reference Range Information

Performing Location Reference Range
Marshfield

0-2 years: Reference range not established

3-8 years: 1.4-20.0 ug/24 hours

9-12 years: 2.6-37.0 ug/24 hours

13-17 years: 4.0-56.0 ug/24 hours

≥18 years: 3.5-45.0 ug/24 hours

Pediatric ranges based on literature review

Marshfield Labs Performing Department

Marshfield Labs Special Chemistry

Performing Information

Performing Location Day(s) Test Performed Analytical Time Methodology/Instrumentation
Marshfield

Thursday 

Samples must be in the performing department by 8am on the day of testing for results the same day

6-8 hours UHPLC MS/MS-Waters TQ-XS System

CPT Codes

CPT Modifier
(if needed)
Quantity Description Comments
82530        

Outreach CPT Codes

CPT Modifier
(if needed)
Quantity Description Comments
82530        

Ordering Applications

Ordering Application Description
Cerner Cortisol, Urinary Free, 24 Hour