ASP with CAR is a saliva test developed by Genova Diagnostics that evaluates hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function by assessing the Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) and diurnal cortisol secretion. The assessment measures salivary cortisol collected at awakening and at specified intervals throughout the day, providing insight into the body's dynamic cortisol response after waking, overall diurnal cortisol patterns, and stress physiology. (Ryan 2016)
ASP with CAR is intended to provide providers with information that may complement a comprehensive clinical evaluation of HPA axis function. The Cortisol Awakening Response reflects the normal increase in cortisol that occurs within the first hour after awakening, while additional collection time points help assess the daily cortisol rhythm. Results may support evaluation of stress-related physiology, fatigue, sleep disturbances, circadian rhythm disruption, and other conditions in which altered cortisol patterns may be relevant. Findings should always be interpreted alongside the patient's history, symptoms, physical examination, and other laboratory data, because cortisol patterns alone do not establish a diagnosis or identify the underlying cause of symptoms. (Stalder 2024)
Quick Facts
- Laboratory: Genova Diagnostics
- Specimen: Saliva
- Technology: Laboratory-based salivary hormone analysis measuring unbound, biologically active cortisol and DHEA
- Turnaround Time: Commonly cited at roughly 7–9 business days after the lab receives the specimen; Genova frames turnaround as an estimate, with order tracking in myGDX
- Collection Method: At-home timed saliva collection using six saliva samples: immediately upon waking, approximately 30 minutes after waking, 7–9 AM, 11 AM–1 PM, 3–5 PM, and 10 PM–12 AM.
- Availability: Provider-ordered. Not available in New York State.
