In some cases, your specialist may refer you for a scan of your adrenal glands – this could be a CT scan or an MRI scan. People with Addison's disease often have an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism), where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones.īy testing the levels of certain hormones in your blood, your endocrinologist (a specialist in hormone conditions) can determine whether you have hypothyroidism. It produces hormones that control your body's growth and metabolism. Your thyroid gland is found in your neck. Your thyroid gland may also be tested to see if it's working properly. If the ACTH level is high but the cortisol and aldosterone levels are low, it's usually confirmation of Addison's disease. Further blood samples will be taken to measure cortisol after 30 minutes and after 60 minutes. When synacthen is given, the adrenal glands should respond in the same way as they would to ACTH by releasing cortisol and other steroid hormones into the blood.Ī blood sample will be taken and tested for cortisol before an injection of synacthen is given into your arm.
ACTH is naturally produced by the pituitary gland (a pea-sized gland below the brain) to encourage the adrenal glands to release cortisol and aldosterone. Synacthen is a man-made (synthetic) copy of the adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH). How urgent the referral is will depend on how severe your symptoms are. Your GP may refer you to an endocrinology unit (a unit that specialises in the study of hormones) for the test. If cortisol in your blood is low or your symptoms strongly suggest Addison's disease, you'll need to have a synacthen stimulation test to confirm the diagnosis. positive adrenal antibodies (antibodies designed to attack the adrenal gland)Īny of the above could be a sign of Addison's disease.a low level of glucose (sugar used for energy).a high level of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH).You may need to see a hospital hormone specialist (endocrinologist) for your blood to be tested for the following: A low sodium, high potassium or low cortisol level may indicate Addison's disease. If Addison's disease is suspected, blood tests will be carried out to measure the levels of sodium, potassium and cortisol in your body. This is to see whether you have low blood pressure when you change position (postural or orthostatic hypotension). You'll also be tested for low blood pressure (hypotension) while you're lying down and again shortly after you stand up. However, hyperpigmentation does not occur in all cases of Addison's disease.
#Cortisol hormones skin
Your GP will examine your skin for any evidence of brownish discolouration (hyperpigmentation), particularly in certain areas, such as: They're also likely to ask if anyone in your family has an autoimmune disorder (a condition caused by a problem with their immune system). To help diagnose Addison’s disease, your GP will first ask about your symptoms and review your medical history.