What is the Origin of Cortisol Profile Mapping?

The term originates from the combination of "cortisol," the primary human stress hormone, "profile," referring to a graph of values over time, and "mapping," signifying the detailed delineation of this pattern. It is a cornerstone technique in functional endocrinology and chronobiology.

What is the Mechanism of Cortisol Profile Mapping?

The mapping process captures the Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR), the morning peak, the gradual midday decline, and the nighttime nadir. Abnormalities in this rhythm, such as a flattened curve or an inverted pattern, indicate a failure in the HPA axis's negative feedback loop. Interpreting this profile allows for targeted, chronobiologically informed interventions to restore rhythmic hormonal signaling.

Cortisol Profile Mapping ∞ Area

Cortisol Profile Mapping

Meaning

Cortisol Profile Mapping is a precise diagnostic procedure involving the collection of cortisol samples at multiple, specific time points throughout a 24-hour period to accurately chart the hormone’s diurnal rhythm. This mapping provides a high-fidelity representation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function, revealing patterns of secretion that are often missed by single-point testing. Clinically, it identifies deviations from the expected circadian curve, which are crucial indicators of chronic stress adaptation or adrenal dysregulation. It is essential for understanding the dynamic hormonal response to the sleep-wake cycle.