Synacthen Test in Hale, UK

A Synacthen test, also known as a Short Synacthen Test (SST) or ACTH stimulation test - Adrenocorticotropin Stimulation Test, is used to assess how well your adrenal glands respond to stimulation and whether your body is able to produce an appropriate amount of cortisol.

At Precision Care, we provide specialist endocrinology care for patients requiring assessment of adrenal and hormone function. Our Synacthen testing service is available at Hale, providing access to specialist endocrine assessment in a private clinical setting.

If you have been referred for a Synacthen test or your doctor has recommended assessment of your cortisol response, our specialist team can explain the test, what to expect, and how the results will be interpreted in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

What Is a Synacthen Test?

A Synacthen test assesses your body's ability to produce cortisol, an essential hormone produced by the adrenal glands.

Cortisol has several important roles in the body. It helps the body respond to physical stress and illness and contributes to the regulation of blood pressure, blood glucose and immune function.

Cortisol production is influenced by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which is produced by the pituitary gland. During a Synacthen test, a synthetic form of ACTH called Synacthen is administered to stimulate the adrenal glands.

Blood samples are taken before and after the injection so that your cortisol response can be assessed.

The test can therefore provide important information about whether the adrenal glands are responding appropriately to ACTH.

Why Might I Need a Synacthen Test?

Your endocrinologist or doctor may recommend a Synacthen test if there is concern that your body is not producing enough cortisol.

The test can be used when investigating possible:

• Adrenal insufficiency
• Primary adrenal insufficiency, including Addison's disease
• Secondary adrenal insufficiency
• Tertiary adrenal insufficiency
• Disorders affecting the pituitary-adrenal axis
• Other conditions where assessment of adrenal cortisol production is clinically appropriate

A Synacthen test is particularly useful because it does not simply measure cortisol at one point in time. Instead, it assesses how the adrenal glands respond when stimulated.

However, the test is only one part of an endocrine assessment. Your symptoms, medical history, medications and other hormone tests may also be considered when interpreting the result.

What Does a Synacthen Test Measure?

The main purpose of the test is to assess the cortisol response to synthetic ACTH.

In a typical Short Synacthen Test:

1. Baseline blood sample

A blood sample is taken before Synacthen is administered. This provides a baseline cortisol measurement.

2. Synacthen is administered

A small dose of synthetic ACTH (Synacthen) is given according to the clinical protocol being used.

3. Repeat blood sample

A further blood sample is taken after the appropriate interval to measure the cortisol response. Many UK protocols use a sample around 30 minutes after administration, although testing protocols can vary.

4. Your results are assessed

The cortisol response is reviewed by your endocrinologist alongside your clinical history and other relevant investigations.

The purpose is to determine whether the adrenal glands have produced an appropriate cortisol response to stimulation.

What Happens During a Synacthen Test?

We will explain the procedure before the test and answer any questions you may have.

The test generally involves:

• Blood test
• Synacthen administration
• Waiting period
• Repeat blood test
• Clinical review

The procedure itself is relatively straightforward. You will normally remain at the clinic during the testing period so that the required blood samples can be collected at the correct times.

The total time required can vary according to the testing protocol being used.

Some people experience a brief warm or flushed sensation, mild nausea, dizziness or discomfort around the injection site. These effects are generally short-lived. Serious allergic reactions are very uncommon, but you should tell the medical team about any previous allergies or reactions to medications.

How Should I Prepare for a Synacthen Test?

Your preparation will depend on your individual circumstances and the medications you take.

Tell your doctor about your medications

It is particularly important to tell your endocrinologist if you take steroid medication, including medicines such as:

• Hydrocortisone
• Prednisolone
• Dexamethasone
• Other corticosteroids

Some steroid medications can affect cortisol testing, and your doctor may give you specific instructions about whether and when to take your medication before the test.

What about fasting?

Fasting requirements can vary between clinics and individual testing protocols. Your appointment instructions will tell you whether you need to fast.

If you are unsure about eating, drinking or taking medication before your appointment, contact the clinic before attending rather than making changes yourself.

How Long Does a Synacthen Test Take?

The exact duration depends on the testing protocol.

A Short Synacthen Test commonly involves a baseline blood sample, administration of Synacthen and a repeat blood sample after approximately 30 minutes. Some protocols may involve additional samples or monitoring.

We will provide you with instructions about when to arrive and how long you should expect to remain at the clinic.

Because the timing of blood samples is important, please allow sufficient time for the appointment.

Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?

Synacthen testing is generally considered a safe procedure.

Some people may experience temporary symptoms following the injection, such as:

• A warm or flushed feeling
• Mild nausea
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• A brief unusual taste
• Mild discomfort or bruising where the injection or blood sample was taken

Serious allergic reactions are rare. Tell the clinical team if you have experienced a previous allergic reaction to Synacthen or similar medications, or if you have significant allergies.

Our team will explain the procedure and any relevant precautions before testing.

Understanding Your Synacthen Test Results

The important question is not simply whether your cortisol level is "high" or "low".

Your endocrinologist will assess how your cortisol level changes following stimulation and interpret the result according to the laboratory's reference ranges, the testing protocol used and your individual clinical circumstances.

A result suggesting an inadequate cortisol response may lead to further investigation or treatment for possible adrenal insufficiency.

In some situations, results can be borderline or require additional assessment. A Synacthen test should therefore be interpreted by an appropriately trained clinician rather than viewed in isolation.

Your endocrinologist can explain what your result means for you and whether any further tests or follow-up are recommended.

Synacthen Test for Suspected Adrenal Insufficiency

Adrenal insufficiency occurs when the body cannot produce sufficient cortisol.

Because cortisol is important for the body's response to physical stress and illness, identifying adrenal insufficiency is clinically important.

There are different forms of adrenal insufficiency.

Primary adrenal insufficiency

This occurs when the adrenal glands themselves are unable to produce sufficient cortisol. Addison's disease is one cause of primary adrenal insufficiency.

Secondary adrenal insufficiency

This can occur when the pituitary gland does not produce sufficient ACTH to stimulate the adrenal glands.

Tertiary adrenal insufficiency

This relates to reduced stimulation of the pituitary-adrenal system from the hypothalamus.

The underlying cause matters because it can influence further investigations and treatment. A Synacthen test can help your endocrinologist assess adrenal cortisol production as part of this diagnostic process.

Why Choose Specialist Endocrine Care for Your Synacthen Test?

Hormonal conditions can sometimes produce symptoms that overlap with many other health problems.

A specialist endocrinology assessment can help put your test results into context rather than considering a cortisol result on its own.

At Precision Care, our approach is centred around:

Specialist endocrinology assessment

Your test is considered within the wider context of your symptoms, medical history, medication and previous investigations.

Personalised care

We recognise that endocrine conditions can affect people differently. Your assessment and follow-up are tailored to your individual circumstances.

Clear explanations

We aim to explain what the test involves, why it has been recommended and what the results may mean.

Book a Synacthen Test in Hale

If you have been advised to undergo a Synacthen test or would like specialist assessment of possible adrenal insufficiency, Precision Care can provide specialist endocrinology care in Hale.

Our aim is to make the testing process clear, clinically appropriate and centred around your individual needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Synacthen Test

Is a Synacthen test the same as an ACTH stimulation test?

Yes. A Synacthen test is also commonly referred to as an ACTH stimulation test or Short Synacthen Test (SST). It assesses the adrenal cortisol response to synthetic ACTH.

What is Synacthen used for?

Synacthen is a synthetic form of ACTH used to stimulate the adrenal glands during the test. The resulting cortisol response helps clinicians assess adrenal function.

Does a Synacthen test diagnose Addison's disease?

It can contribute to the assessment of suspected Addison's disease and other forms of adrenal insufficiency, but the diagnosis is not based on the Synacthen result alone. Your endocrinologist may consider other hormone tests, antibodies, imaging and your medical history where appropriate.

Do I need to stop my steroid medication before the test?

Some steroid medications can interfere with cortisol testing. However, the correct approach depends on the medication and your individual circumstances.

Do not stop or alter prescribed steroids unless your doctor specifically tells you to do so.

Do I need to fast?

Not everyone needs to fast. Preparation instructions vary depending on the testing protocol and your circumstances. You will be advised before your appointment.

How long does the test take?

A Short Synacthen Test commonly involves blood sampling before and after Synacthen administration, with a repeat sample often taken around 30 minutes later. The exact duration can vary depending on the protocol used.

Can I drive home after a Synacthen test?

Many patients can leave after the test, but whether you should drive depends on how you feel and your clinician's advice. If you feel dizzy, faint or otherwise unwell, tell the clinical team before leaving.

What happens if my Synacthen test is abnormal?

Your endocrinologist will explain the result and advise whether you need additional testing, treatment or follow-up. An abnormal result does not necessarily explain every symptom you may be experiencing, so the result needs to be interpreted in the context of your overall health.