Comparison of serum and salivary cortisol in restrained ewe lambs after (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone) ACTH administration

摘要

The objective of the current study was to compare cortisol concentrations in serum and salivary samples taken concurrently from halter-restrained lambs administered ACTH (100 IU, i.v.) or saline. Although cortisol appeared elevated in all animals, it tended to increase after ACTH administration in both serum (p = 0.085) and saliva (p = 0.078). Additionally, correlation (r = 0.66; p < 0.001) and regression (R2?= 0.44; p < 0.001) analysis revealed a relationship between cortisol in serum and saliva. Findings indicate that salivary cortisol is indicative of serum cortisol and may provide a viable non-invasive alternative for cortisol quantification.