This Synthetic Glucocorticoid Screen, Serum detects the following synthetic steroids:
- Betamethasone
- Budesonide
- Dexamethasone
- Fludrocortisone
- Megestrol acetate
- Methylprednisolone
- Prednisolone
- Prednisone
- Triamcinolone acetonide
What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Synthetic Glucocorticoid Screen, Serum to detect the presence of specific synthetic glucocorticoids in a blood sample and helps determine the cause of secondary adrenal insufficiency. Synthetic glucocorticoids, or synthetic steroids, are widely used and clinically used as anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agents. However, these agents' medical and clandestine use can sometimes confuse clinical presentation. For example, patients exposed to these steroids may showcase symptoms of Cushing syndrome but with suppressed cortisol levels and evidence of secondary adrenal insufficiency.
What does a positive synthetic glucocorticoid screen indicate?
The presence of synthetic glucocorticoids in serum indicates the current or recent use of these compounds. Since several of these compounds exceed the potency of endogenous cortisol by one or more orders of magnitude, even trace levels may be associated with Cushing syndrome and secondary adrenal insufficiency.
Cushing's syndrome is a hormone disorder caused by long-term exposure to excessive cortisol. Cortisol is a glucocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal gland. For example, taking synthetic glucocorticoids to treat an inflammatory disease sometimes leads to Cushing's. In addition, some kinds of tumors produce a hormone that can cause the body to make too much cortisol. However, secondary adrenal insufficiency is when the adrenal glands don't make enough cortisol because the pituitary gland isn't working correctly. Long-term usage of synthetic glucocorticoids may disrupt the workings of the pituitary and adrenal glands, which can cause a decrease in cortisol production. If an individual were to stop taking synthetic glucocorticoids, suddenly, they may experience cortisol insufficiency.
When should I order a Synthetic Glucocorticoid Screen, Serum?
Individuals may order this test if they have experienced symptoms related to Cushing syndrome or secondary adrenal insufficiency. Common signs or symptoms of Cushing syndrome include:
- Sudden weight gain
- Thin arms and legs
- Round face and increased fat around the neck
- A fatty hump between the shoulders
- Easily bruising
- Wide purple stretch marks
- Weakened muscles
Additionally, common signs or symptoms of secondary adrenal insufficiency include:
- Chronic fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
