Normal Reference Ranges
Adult
5 - 25 mcg/dL
Pediatric
5 - 25 mcg/dL
Clinical Significance
Primary glucocorticoid. Secreted in a diurnal pattern (highest in early morning). Suppressed normally by Dexamethasone.
Causes of High
- Cushing's Syndrome
- Physical/Emotional stress
- Hyperthyroidism
- Pregnancy/Estrogen therapy
Causes of Low
- Addison's Disease (Primary adrenal insufficiency)
- Secondary adrenal insufficiency (Pituitary failure)