What does FUC mean in MEDICAL

Free Urinary Cortisol (FUC) is a measure of cortisol levels in urine samples. It measures how much free cortisol has been released out of its binding proteins, providing information about an individual's stress levels.

A sample of urine is collected and analyzed to measure cortisol levels. The results are then compared against a reference range to determine the amount of free cortisol present.

Testing for FUC can help diagnose conditions such as Cushing's Syndrome or Addison's Disease, both involving abnormal cortisol levels in the body. Additionally, testing for FUC can also provide insight into an individual's stress levels and how well their body is responding to stress management techniques.

Testing for FUC should generally be done at least once a year if you are concerned about your stress level or have noticed any physical symptoms related to abnormal cortisol levels in your body. Your doctor may also advise more frequent testing depending on your specific needs and medical history.

High FUC results indicate that there are abnormally high levels of free cortisols present in the urine sample, which could be caused by conditions such as Cushing's Syndrome or long-term exposure to high amounts of stress. Low results can indicate insufficient production of adrenal hormones or Addison's Disease.