LOINC long common name : Melatonin [Mass/volume] in Saliva (oral fluid);
LOINC short name : Melatonin Sal-mCnc;
LOINC description : Melatonin assays are used to evaluate the phase position of the biological clock and
alignment of an individual's circadian rhythm with a typical 24-hour sleep-wake cycle.
Saliva melatonin levels are relatively unaffected by changes in posture and at any
given time, the saliva concentration is approximately 30% of that in the plasma. Given
that saliva sampling is noninvasive and painless, saliva provides a convenient alternative
to plasma. Timed melatonin measurement is used to identify sleep-wake cycle disorders,
and melatonin can also be used to determine pineal gland function and help in the
diagnosis of pineal tumors. [PMID: 16761382];
Has component