Current status of salivary hormone analysis
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany. michael.groeschl@uk-erlangen.de
Clinical Chemistry
|September 2, 2008
Summary
Saliva analysis offers a reliable, noninvasive method for hormone detection, proving useful across various research fields. Standardization of collection and analysis is key for widespread clinical acceptance of salivary hormone testing.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Endocrinology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Saliva provides a noninvasive, stress-free alternative to plasma and serum for analyzing steroids, amines, and peptides.
- Numerous publications highlight the utility of salivary hormone analysis in clinical and basic research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current applications of salivary hormone analysis.
- To describe hormone entry into saliva, analytical methods, and reliable collection techniques.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on salivary hormone analysis.
- Description of analytical techniques and saliva collection protocols.
- Exploration of applications in psychiatry, stress research, endocrinology, sports medicine, and veterinary medicine.
Main Results:
- Saliva analysis is a reliable method for hormone detection, sometimes outperforming other body fluids.
- Applications span diverse fields, demonstrating the versatility of salivary hormone testing.
Conclusions:
- Saliva analysis is a proven, reliable method for hormone assessment.
- Further standardization of analytical tools, reference intervals, and collection methods is needed for broader clinical adoption.
- Addressing donor compliance issues through strict standardization is crucial for data comparability.
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