DUTCH Adrenal Test Instructions
Precision Analytical Lab
Unlike a single blood cortisol assessment, which provides only a single measurement of cortisol, the DUTCH Adrenal provides a deeper understanding of adrenal function. By measuring levels of cortisol and metabolites multiple times throughout the day, we are able to assess total cortisol production and identify patterns of adrenal dysfunction. Learn more about the test here. |
Collection Instructions
Key Details
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, or large fluid intake during the collection period.
- Exercise that increases the heart rate can cause cortisol to increase. If you would like to test your cortisol levels based on your current routine, do not change your exercise habits (this is my recommendation). If you currently exercise vigorously and would like to know your cortisol levels without the effect of exercise, you can choose to take a break from exercise on your collection days.
- If you are taking hormones or supplements, please ensure I am aware of all the products you take so I am able to provide any necessary guidance in addition to the information listed below.
- You can collect your samples on any day of your menstrual cycle.
- Ensure the samples are fully dried before shipping them back.
- Samples should be shipped as soon as possible after collection.
Notes on Preparation & Timing
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, or large fluid intake for several hours before and during the collection period.
- Do not drink any fluids for 2 hours before collecting each sample.
- Keep fluids to no more than 40 oz (~1.2 L) total on day 1 (spread evenly throughout the day).
- Keep fluids less than 8 oz (~ 250 mL) between samples 3 and 4.
- Supplement/medication info:
- Let me know if you are taking glucocorticoids or oral hydrocortisone (or see video instructions here)
- Do NOT take oral DHEA for 48 hours before testing or during test collection
- Do not skip doses of birth control
Collection Instructions
#1: Collect according to the following schedule. See fluid restrictions above.
#2: Write your name, the date and time of collection, the day of your cycle (if applicable), and the sample number (following to the schedule above) on the collection device.
#3: Saturate the filter paper completely by urinating directly on it OR by using a clean cup and dipping the filter paper.
#4: Leave the collection device open to dry for at least 24 hours.
#5: Once dry, close and fold each collection device.
#6: Complete the test requisition form.
#7: Place all devices in the resealable plastic bag.
#8: Place the completed requisition form and the plastic bag in the provided envelope to mail.
Special Collection Notes:
- Sample 1: Dinnertime (~5pm)
- Sample 2: Bedtime (~10pm - 12am)
- Extra Overnight Sample: Collect at your first waking sleep disturbance with urination. If you wake to urinate a second time during the night, do not collect.
- Sample 3: Upon waking - do NOT lay awake in bed before collecting sample 3.
- Sample 4: 2 hours after waking
- Tip: set a timer to remind yourself
#2: Write your name, the date and time of collection, the day of your cycle (if applicable), and the sample number (following to the schedule above) on the collection device.
#3: Saturate the filter paper completely by urinating directly on it OR by using a clean cup and dipping the filter paper.
#4: Leave the collection device open to dry for at least 24 hours.
#5: Once dry, close and fold each collection device.
#6: Complete the test requisition form.
#7: Place all devices in the resealable plastic bag.
#8: Place the completed requisition form and the plastic bag in the provided envelope to mail.
Special Collection Notes:
- If you miss a collection, collect at the appropriate time the following day.
- You have the option to start collection with Sample 3 instead of Sample 1.
- You must collect the extra sample if you do this.
- If you have an abnormal sleep schedule, collect Sample 1 4-7 hours before bed, Sample 2 before your longest stretch of sleep, Sample 3 upon waking from this sleeping period, and Sample 4 2 hours later.
- See the official DUTCH collection information here.
- Watch a video tutorial here.
Requisition & Payment
- There is no charge for the test kit.
- You will be invoiced for the test when the lab processes the sample. You will be charged the fee that was agreed upon, subject to increase if the lab increases their fees in the time between when you receive the test kit and when the lab receives your samples.
- Instructions on how to fill out your requisition can be found here.
- Lab test fees are a tax deductible expense in BC. If you have extended health insurance, your plan may also cover lab test fees. Please contact your extended health provider to determine if you have coverage for lab testing.
Shipping
- Use the return envelope provided to ship your samples via UPS.
- Once the collection devices are dry, close and fold each device.
- Place all devices in the resealable plastic bag.
- Place the completed requisition form and the plastic bag in the provided envelope to mail.
- Please ship ALL tests as soon as possible after completion.
- If you have to wait to ship your samples, please place the plastic bag containing the samples in the freezer after they have dried.
- Make a note of the tracking number so that you can track your sample back to the lab.
Results
- Results are typically released to me 7-10 business days after samples are received at the lab. Processing time may take longer than this.
- You will be notified when your results are in and asked to schedule a follow-up appointment at that time.
If you have any questions about testing, please contact me or schedule an appointment.