MEASUREMENT OF SALIVARY CORTISOL - AN INT ERESTING METHOD FOR EXPLORING ADRENAL SECRETION

An interesting method for patients and physicians: Measurement of sali vary cortisol has not modified the investigation of hospitalized patie nts but offers very original possibilities for exploring outpatients. Repeat measurements and stimulation tests: As for serum cortisol level s, repeat measurements or stimulation tests are required for reliable evaluation of salivary cortisol. Several applications: Salivary cortis ol level can be an appropriate tool in screening for adrenal insuffici ency, using the short ACTH injection test, evaluating hypercorticism t hrough the circadian cycle of cortisol and overnight dexamethasone sup pression test either at the physician's office or in the patient's hom e. In addition, long-term follow-up is possible for outpatients invest igated or treated for Cushing's syndrome.