What is the Origin of Cortisol Measurement?

The practice stems from early clinical endocrinology's need to differentiate primary adrenal disorders from central pituitary dysfunction. The substance itself is synthesized in the adrenal cortex, driving the focus of the measurement technique.

What is the Mechanism of Cortisol Measurement?

The mechanism relies on highly specific assays, often mass spectrometry, to quantify the steroid molecule. Salivary measurement, for example, captures the unbound, biologically active fraction of cortisol, providing a better index of tissue exposure than total serum levels. This quantitative data directly reflects the body's current capacity to manage systemic stressors.

Cortisol Measurement ∞ Area

Cortisol Measurement

Meaning

Cortisol Measurement is the analytical process quantifying the primary glucocorticoid, cortisol, typically from serum, saliva, or urine, to evaluate the functional status of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This measurement is critical for diagnosing adrenal insufficiency or excess, conditions that severely disrupt metabolic regulation and stress adaptation. Interpretation often requires assessing the diurnal rhythmicity of these concentrations.