Flattened circadian cortisol rhythm in type 2 diabetes

Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes. 2011 Oct;119(9):573-5. doi: 10.1055/s-0031-1275288. Epub 2011 Apr 6.

Abstract

Introduction: While altered cortisol concentrations have been observed in subjects with type 2 diabetes their circadian cortisol profile is unknown.

Patients and methods: Using a cross-sectional design, we studied 63 ambulatory individuals with type 2 diabetes and 916 non-diabetic control subjects of the Cooperative Research in the Region of Augsburg (KORA)-F3 study. Circadian cortisol profiles were derived from saliva cortisol concentrations, determined on a regular weekday upon wake-up (F0), as well as ½ h (F½), 8 (F8) and 14 h (F14) after wake-up.

Results: Diabetic subjects exhibited a flattened circadian cortisol profile (rm-ANOVA: F[3,654]=3.41, p=0.02), with lower morning and higher afternoon and evening cortisol concentrations.

Conclusion: We observed a flattened circadian cortisol rhythm in subjects with type 2 diabetes, providing evidence for a specific HPA system dysfunction.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Circadian Rhythm*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / metabolism*
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Germany
  • Humans
  • Hydrocortisone / metabolism*
  • Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System / physiopathology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pituitary-Adrenal System / physiopathology
  • Saliva / metabolism*

Substances

  • Hydrocortisone