Beta-endorphin levels of children in acute stress.

In this study aiming to clarify the relationships between beta-endorphin and glucose levels, beta-endorphin levels were determined in children in acute stress. The study was carried out on 32 critically ill children between 5 days and 12 years presenting with clinical symptoms of acute infectious conditions. 11 healthy children were taken as controls. The results showed that although beta-endorphin levels were elevated in all critically ill patients, these levels were significantly higher than control values in hyperglycaemic cases. The insulin levels were also elevated. A follow-up of nine of the hyperglycaemic cases showed a significant decline in beta-endorphin and insulin levels with recovery. Glucose tolerance was also normal. These results confirm the reports of many other studies on the role of beta-endorphin as a stress hormone.