Tests Offered: TAP

The second in the series about what specialty tests offered in my practice is the TAP or Temporal Adrenal Profile from Diagnostechs. 

The TAP test is a saliva test which measures free levels of the stress hormone cortisol over the course of one day. I typically run the test in patients who complain of fatigue and sleep issues, but often in patients who have immune problems, gut complaints and skin and hair issues. Healthy levels of cortisol play an important role in many different systems of the body.

Indications for ordering the TAP test include:

• fatigue or tired a lot of the time
• insomnia
  
• poor immune health
  
• mood swings
• blood sugar issues
• difficulty with weight

The previous list is not exhaustive, but does give you a peek into certain situations where the test might be ordered. Although there are multiple ways cortisol may be measured, the TAP is my favorite way.

Advantages of the TAP test:

• convenient at home testing
• no needles, painless
• changes seen through the day
• only shows free cortisol levels 

If you'd like to learn more about the TAP test or you'd like to discuss ordering the test, schedule a visit with me!