You can view 5 more pages without signing in

Metyrapone test

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

This is a test for Cushing's syndrome that is now rarely used.

Metyrapone inhibits 11-beta-hydroxylation in the adrenal cortex and hence cortisol and corticosterone synthesis. A low corticosteroid level causes increased ACTH secretion and therefore adrenal stimulation and further 11-deoxycortisol production (since cortisol production is blocked). The metabolites of 11-deoxycortisol (17-hydroxy and 17-ketogenic steroids) are excreted in the urine.

Interpretation of test results:

normal individuals - increased levels of metabolites
adrenal hyperplasia - Cushing's disease - higher levels of metabolites
if Cushing's syndrome is due to ectopic ACTH production, an adrenal adenoma, or adrenal carcinoma, then there is characteristically little or no increased levels of metabolites after metyrapone
reduced responses to metyrapone may be seen in:
- hypopituitarism
- primary thyrotoxicosis
- pregnancy (but metyrapone is contraindicated in these patients)
- some patients taking phenytoin or the oral contraceptive pill

Create an account to add page annotations

Create a free account

Annotations allow you to add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation. E.g. a website or number. This information will always show when you visit this page.

Metyrapone test

Related pages

Create an account to add page annotations