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Published on: December 18, 2013
A new device for collecting saliva for cortisol determination
Carolina de Weerth1, Jarno Jansen, Mariska H Vos
1Department of Developmental Psychology, Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, Montessorilaan 3, 6525 HR Nijmegen, The Netherlands. C.deWeerth@psych.ru.nl
Psychoneuroendocrinology
|September 14, 2007
Summary
An eye sponge effectively collects saliva cortisol samples in adults and infants, offering a comfortable and convenient alternative to traditional cotton rolls for accurate cortisol measurement.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Clinical Chemistry
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Saliva cortisol measurement is crucial for assessing stress and adrenal function.
- Traditional cotton roll saliva collection methods present several practical challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of an eye sponge as an oral collection device for saliva cortisol.
- To compare the performance of eye sponges with standard cotton rolls in adults and infants.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of saliva cortisol collection using eye sponges versus cotton rolls.
- Testing sample stability at 4-8°C for up to one week.
- Assessing sample volume adequacy in adults and young infants.
Main Results:
- Eye sponges demonstrate adequate cortisol recovery, maintaining sample integrity for up to a week under refrigeration.
- Sufficient saliva volumes (50-100 microliters) are obtainable from infants, while adults yield larger volumes (200-250 microliters).
- Eye sponges offer improved comfort and ease of use compared to cotton rolls.
Conclusions:
- The eye sponge is a valid and effective device for saliva cortisol collection in both adult and infant populations.
- Advantages include enhanced patient comfort, tastelessness, simplified sample handling, and clear indicators for sufficient collection.
- This method presents a practical advancement for routine salivary cortisol analysis.
