What does the Cortisone test measure?

Why is Cortisone measured?

Cortisone measurement is not routine in standard endocrine assessment. Some functional-medicine practitioners interpret the cortisol-to-cortisone ratio as an index of 11β-HSD activity and tissue glucocorticoid metabolism, but this approach is not widely adopted in mainstream practice.

Reference ranges

Standard reference

Typically 3–12 ng/mL; method- and time-dependent.

Functional medicine optimal

Reference and 'optimal' ranges for cortisone are less well defined than for cortisol; interpretation is method-specific and should be guided by the laboratory's intervals and clinical context.

Units

ng/mL, nmol/L

Reference ranges vary by laboratory and assay platform. Interpret in context of the issuing laboratory's stated range.