short synacthen test

[reidys]

can anyone tell me what test is for?

[Richard2009]

I had a synacthen test (250mmg) this morning, and fainted after 15 mins. I have never fainted before, and did not faint when they took blood samples 15 mins and 45 mins before. I had a horrible feeling immediately prior to fainting. When brought round, my BP was lowish but quickly recovered; and my sugar (?) was 'fine' (6.6)

I believe it was not an allergic reaction which would present within 5 mins (not 15).

I have previously been diagnosed with HSP (Henoch Schonlein
Purpura) as an adult, and have recently had petechiae again.

I am guessing I have had a recent auto-immune 'attack'  and that my Cortisol will show up as pretty low. (My Cortisol had previously been 369 but I don't know what time of day, though the endocrinologist had reckoned 369 was low)

I al;so recently had a straightforward tooth filling with injection, and needed to spend the next day in bed - with exhaustion

I'd love to receive any comments/thoughts (I'm a little anxious about going on holiday until this is sorted. Is that over cautious?)

Richard

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

'The ACTH stimulation test (also called the short Synacthen test) is a medical test performed to assess the functioning of the adrenal glands.

Specifically, it is used to diagnose or exclude adrenal insufficiency, Addison's disease and related conditions. It involves the injection of synthetic adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and measuring the amount of cortisol and sometimes aldosterone the adrenals produce in response.

Apart from objectivating adrenal insufficiency, it can also distinguish the various causes.'

You can read more about it at -

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ACTH_stimulation_test

Let us know if you need any other information.

Regards.