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Corticotrophin Releasing Hormone (CRH) Test
| What is a CRF test? |
| What is the pituitary gland? |
| What do I need to do before the test? |
| Outline of the procedure |
| After the test |
| Who will get the results? |
| General Matters |
This test is performed to check how effectively your pituitary gland is working in regulating the release of cortisol and ACTH.
It is a small gland in the base of the brain, a few inches behind the bridge of the nose, which has major role in the control of your body’s hormone production.
What do I need to do before the test?
You are requested not to eat or drink anything from mid-night on the day of the test.
OUTLINE OF THE PROCEDURE
You will be asked to lie flat for the duration of the test. Your named nurse will introduce herself and explain what to expect.
A small needle/canula will be inserted into a vein in the back of your hand or arm. This is called a venflon and allows your named nurse to obtain blood samples without causing too much discomfort.
We will take a blood sample to check your baseline hormone level of two hormones called ACTH and cortisol. We will then give you an injection of CRF which in normal people will stimulate your body to produce a rise in ACTH and cortisol.
Blood samples will be taken at 15 minute intervals for up to 2 hours after the CRF injection to check the hormone levels so as to measure how well your body can respond to the stimulation.
AFTER THE TEST
On completion your venflon will be removed and you will be offered refreshments prior to going home. You should have some rest and also have something to eat before you go home after the test.
Your doctor will be informed of the results.
GENERAL MATTERS
Please note that Clinical Investigation Unit has no smoking policy.
If you have any queries or worries, please do not hesitate to contact the nursing staff for further information on 01382 632494.
We hope to make your stay as pleasant as possible.
Link to Cushings
Ó NHS Tayside; 2006; version 1.0
Disclaimer; no liability whatsoever is accepted for information given and all such information, especially with regard to drug usage (UK version provided), must be checked with a person’s health provider.