Salivary cortisol testing in children.

Biological markers can identify links between human biology and human behavior. Cortisol, a marker of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis function, is a useful measure in research. Newer technology involving the measurement of cortisol in saliva is being utilized in research studies. Salivary cortisol measurement is inexpensive and noninvasive and offers many advantages over serum testing. Although there are various methods of saliva collection, it is relatively easy to perform in both infants and children. Salivary cortisol testing may offer a significant measure for pediatric stress, coping, and health research.