Measurement of morning saliva cortisol in athletes.

Authors :: Lippi G
De Vita F
Salvagno GL
Gelati M
Montagnana M
Guidi GC
Source :: Clinical biochemistry [Clin Biochem] 2009 Jun; Vol. 42 (9), pp. 904-6. Date of Electronic Publication: 2009 Feb 26.
Publication Year :: 2009
Abstract: Objectives: To evaluate feasibility and reliability of measuring saliva cortisol in athletes.<br />Design and Methods: Saliva cortisol was measured in 25 soccer players, and compared with serum cortisol measured with two commercial immunoassays.<br />Results: A highly significant correlation was observed between saliva and serum cortisol. The percentage of saliva and serum values above the upper limit of the reference range was nearly identical.<br />Conclusions: Salivary measurement is a suitable approach for monitoring cortisol in athletes.