2214. Cortisol (salive)
Important information
*The material should be collected in a special container (it can be purchased at the Synevo laboratory in advance)
Description
Cortisol is a steroid hormone synthesized by the adrenal glands, known as the stress hormone. It regulates several vital functions in the human body. Most cortisol in the blood is protein-bound. Saliva contains free, biologically active cortisol.
Cortisol levels are highest early in the morning and then decrease throughout the day, reaching the lowest level around midnight. This rhythm changes in diseases of the adrenal glands and the pituitary gland.
For the purpose of diagnosing conditions with increased hormone synthesis, it is optimal to collect saliva for analysis at 23:00.
When and who needs the test?
- Numerous and progressive symptoms characteristic of Cushing’s syndrome / disease (obesity, arterial hypertension, hyperglycemia, myopathy, plethora, osteoporosis, pathological fractures, red striae, increased fragility of the skin and soft tissues).
- Atypical clinical symptoms for the patient’s age (osteoporosis, arterial hypertension).
- In children with growth retardation and excessive weight gain.
- Adrenal incidentaloma with imaging signs of adenoma.
- Monitoring glucocorticosteroid therapy.
Biological material
- Saliva
Preparing for saliva testing
- do not perform dental treatment 48 hours before collection;
- do not drink alcoholic beverages 24 hours before collection;
- do not brush your teeth 2 hours before collection;
- do not eat, smoke, or drink for 30 minutes before collection;
- avoid contact with lipstick;
- avoid samples contaminated with blood (even...