Significance of Exogenous Estradiol on Plasma Cortisol and Salivary Cortisol During Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Stimulation in Women With Pituitary Insufficiency.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Oral estrogens increase the levels of cortisol binding globulin (CBG) potentially affecting test results for adrenal insufficiency. The objective was to evaluate the influence of oral and transdermal estradiol on total plasma (p) and salivary cortisol in hypogonadal women with secondary adrenal insufficiency or at risk of developing adrenal insufficiency. Furthermore, to determine if estradiol treatment can lead to a change in the diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency based on a Synacthen-test.

Methods

Crossover study.

Intervention

12 weeks oral estradiol (2 mg), 12 weeks transdermal estradiol (100 µg/day), and 12 weeks without estradiol. After each intervention plasma total cortisol (pTC), salivary cortisol and CBG were measured before and after a 250 ug Synac

SUBMITTER: Aagaard LS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12583314 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature