Flattened Circadian Cortisol Rhythm in Type 2 Diabetes

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 œ h (Fœ), 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.

Key words

glucocorticoids - hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system - circadian rhythm

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