Cortisol and 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels in saliva of healthy neonates -Normative data and relation to body mass index, arterial cord blood pH andtime of sampling after birth

The measurement of cortisol and 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) in saliva h as become a reliable tool for both the scientist and the clinician for stud ying adrenal cortical function in the adult and the older child. We have no w established in parallel normative data for salivary cortisol and 17-OHP l evels in healthy neonates. We have asked whether or not there is a circadia n rhythm of cortisol and 17-OHP saliva levels in neonates. Furthermore, we have asked whether salivary hormone levels correlated with auxologic and cl inical data and time of sampling. Cortisol and 17-OHP levels in saliva samp les from 119 healthy neonates (55 girls, 64 boys) were measured using in-ho use time-resolved fluorescent immunoassays. Saliva samples were obtained us ing a saliva collecting tube three times a day on the first or second day o f life. Gender and gestational age did not influence salivary cortisol and 17-OHP levels. No significant circadian rhythm of salivary hormone levels w as detected in this group of newborns. However, body mass index, arterial c ord blood pH and time of saliva sampling significantly influenced salivary hormone levels. In conclusion, measurement of cortisol and 17-OHP in saliva is feasible in healthy neonates. The existence of normative data forms the basis for future studies on pathophysiologic states in the newborn period. Copyright (C) 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel.