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Updated: Jun 24, 2026
08:02
Fecal Glucocorticoid Analysis: Non-invasive Adrenal Monitoring in Equids
Published on: April 25, 2016
[Adrenocortical diagnosis in ambulatory practice].
Schweizerische Medizinische Wochenschrift
|August 21, 1976
Summary
Measuring plasma cortisol aids in diagnosing adrenocortical diseases. Simple ACTH and dexamethasone suppression tests are more reliable than diurnal profiles for diagnosing adrenal insufficiency and Cushing's syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Clinical Chemistry
Context:
- Plasma cortisol measurements are crucial for diagnosing adrenocortical diseases.
- Episodic cortisol secretion can limit the diagnostic utility of diurnal profiles.
- Adrenocortical insufficiency and Cushing's syndrome are significant endocrine disorders.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the diagnostic utility of plasma cortisol measurements.
- To compare diurnal cortisol profiles with specific endocrine function tests.
Summary:
- Diurnal plasma cortisol profiling has limitations due to episodic secretion.
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation tests effectively diagnose adrenal insufficiency.
- Overnight dexamethasone suppression tests reliably exclude Cushing's syndrome.
Impact:
- Provides clear diagnostic pathways for adrenocortical diseases.
- Highlights the limitations of traditional diurnal cortisol testing.
- Establishes the efficacy of ACTH and dexamethasone tests in clinical practice.
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