Flow-injection chemiluminescence method for the determination of hydrocortisone and progesterone

A simple Bow injection chemiluminescence (CL) method for the determination of progesterone and hydrocortisones (HCRs) is described, The method is based on their sensitizing effect on the chemiluminescence reaction of a mercapto-group (-SH) with cerium(IV) in sulfuric acid. This method allows determination in the ranges 0.28-8.0 mu g/mL for hydrocortisones (HCRs) and 0.5-8.0 mu g/mL for progesterone with a detection limit of 0.10 mu g/mL for HCRs and 0.26 mu g/mL for progesterone. The experimental conditions for the reaction are optimized. The possible reaction mechanism is discussed.