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Short Synacthen Test 2
Short Synacthen Test 2
Short Synacthen Test 2
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THE PERMISSION OF THE HEAD BMS OF CLINICAL CHEMISTRY
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CC0032
Adrenal insufficiency leads to a reduction in the output of adrenal hormones i.e. glucocorticoids and/or
mineralocorticoids. There are two types of adrenal insufficiency:
1. Primary insufficiency - there is an inability of the adrenal glands to produce enough steroid
hormones (Addison's disease is the name given to the autoimmune cause of this insufficiency).
Glucocorticoid and often mineralocorticoid hormones are lost.
2. Secondary insufficiency - there is inadequate pituitary or hypothalamic stimulation of the adrenal
glands.
This test is performed for the investigation of primary adrenal insufficiency. There is no evidence to
support the use of this test in the management of steroid replacement or withdrawal.
Principle
Side effects
There are rare reports of hypersensitivity reactions to ‘Synacthen’ particularly in children with history
of allergic disorders.
Preparation
There are no dietary restrictions for this test. This test should be performed in the morning as the
cortisol responses between the morning and late afternoon may differ by as much as 100 nmol/L at
30 min sample post Synacthen.
Test procedure
Interpretation