Dexamethasone Suppression
DS
Description
"Dexamethasone Suppression" test evaluates how your body’s cortisol levels respond to dexamethasone, a synthetic steroid. Doctors use it to diagnose conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or other causes of high cortisol. After taking a nighttime dose, blood is drawn the next morning to check if cortisol levels drop as expected. A failure to suppress may suggest adrenal tumors or hormone-producing disorders. Results help clarify the source of hormone imbalance and guide further endocrine treatment or testing.
Category
Endocrine Function, Hormones
Procedure
Invasive
Sample Type
Blood – Serum
Units
Micrograms Per Deciliter | Nanomoles Per Liter | Micrograms Per Day | Nanomoles Per Day | Percentage
Procedure Category
Inject, Blood Draw
Test Group
Imaging Scans Group
Test Group Description
Imaging Scans Group: This group includes a variety of diagnostic imaging techniques used to visualize internal structures and organs in the body. These techniques may include X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine scans.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Low Dose:
Overnight: 8 a.m.: Conventional Unit: < 1.7 µg/dL | SI Unit: < 47 nmol/L
Standard: Day 3: Conventional Unit: < 10 µg/day | SI Unit: < 27.6 nmol/day
High Dose:
Overnight: 8 a.m.: Conventional Unit: > 50% | SI Unit: Not Applicable
Standard: Conventional Unit: > 90% | SI Unit: Not Applicable
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Low Dose:
Overnight: 8 a.m.: Conventional Unit: < 1.7 µg/dL | SI Unit: < 47 nmol/L
Standard: Day 3: Conventional Unit: < 10 µg/day | SI Unit: < 27.6 nmol/day
High Dose:
Overnight: 8 a.m.: Conventional Unit: > 50% | SI Unit: Not Applicable
Standard: Conventional Unit: > 90% | SI Unit: Not Applicable
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Abnormal results may indicate:
Adrenal adenomas (benign tumors in the adrenal gland)
Adrenocortical carcinoma (malignant tumor originating in the adrenal cortex)
Alcoholism
Cushing's syndrome (group of signs and symptoms caused by prolonged exposure to cortisol)
Depression (mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest)
Primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease (rare adrenal gland disorder causing overproduction of cortisol)
Key Reasons For Testing
Cortisol Suppression: Evaluates how cortisol levels respond to dexamethasone, aiding in diagnosing conditions like Cushing's syndrome.
Cushing's Syndrome Types: Distinguishes between pituitary-dependent (Cushing's disease) and ectopic ACTH secretion.
Pituitary Function: Assesses pituitary-adrenal axis integrity by measuring cortisol suppression.
Hypercortisolism Confirmation: Confirms hypercortisolism by d...
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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