Hair cortisol in adults with Prader-Willi syndrome

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic disorder, characterized by muscular weakness, behavioral problems, overeating and risk of morbid obesity. Endocrine insufficiencies are common, although insufficient function of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis seems rare. Long term exposure to the hormone cortisol, associated with stress and obesity, is unknown in PWS. Measurement of hair cortisol is a convenient, non-invasive method to assess chronic stress. The aim of this study is to measure hair cortisol and relate the levels to BMI, stress and levels in age, gender and BMI matched controls. The results are expected to give be of value in the treatment of these patients.