Stimulaatiotesti

Stimulaatiotesti, or stimulation test, is a diagnostic procedure used in medicine to assess the functional capacity of certain endocrine glands, particularly the adrenal glands. The primary purpose is to determine if a gland can produce a sufficient amount of hormone when stimulated. This is most commonly applied to evaluate the adrenal cortex's response to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).

The ACTH stimulation test is the most frequent type. It involves administering synthetic ACTH, usually cosyntropin, either intravenously or intramuscularly. Blood samples are then drawn at specific intervals before and after the ACTH injection to measure the levels of cortisol, a key hormone produced by the adrenal glands. By comparing the baseline cortisol level to the levels after stimulation, clinicians can assess the adrenal glands' ability to respond.

Low or insufficient cortisol responses indicate adrenal insufficiency, a condition where the adrenal glands do not produce enough essential hormones. This can help diagnose conditions like Addison's disease (primary adrenal insufficiency) or secondary adrenal insufficiency, which arises from problems with the pituitary gland. Conversely, an exaggerated response might suggest certain pituitary disorders. The test is a crucial tool for endocrinologists in diagnosing and managing adrenal disorders.