How to Check Adrenal Gland Function

Adrenal glands are responsible for the release of hormones that control the body's functions. They regulate the balance of salt and water in the body and maintain blood sugar levels and pregnancy. Also, adrenal glands are responsible for the start and control of sexual maturation in childhood and puberty. If you have an adrenal gland disorder such as Cushing's syndrome or pituitary tumors, your adrenal glands do not function properly. A doctor will use a variety of tests to determine the health of your adrenal gland function.

Instructions

How to Check Adrenal Gland Function

• 1

  Check your levels. Your doctor may order a dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) test to evaluate your adrenal gland function. DHEAS levels are typically not ordered unless you have symptoms such as infertility, hirsutism, acne or amenorrhea. Your DHEAS test will also be used to distinguish between androgen-secreting conditions, which originate in the testes or ovaries, but are caused by the adrenal glands. In addition, DHEAS tests can help diagnose tumors in the adrenal gland or adrenal hyperplasia. Test results that show low levels of DHEAS can indicate adrenal dysfunction.

• 2

  Your doctor may want you to undergo a nuclear medicine exam, which is a form of radiology used to study adrenal gland function. Before your nuclear medicine exam, you will receive a small dose of radioactive material via an intravenous (IV) line. The material, called a tracer, collects in your adrenal glands and gives off gamma rays. The gamma camera will take pictures of the kidneys.

• 3

  Your doctor may order hormone tests if you have symptoms such as thin skin, muscle weakness, acne, increased body hair, a rounded face or purple lines on your abdomen, which can indicate excess cortisol. Your doctor may also order the test if you have increased skin pigmentation, loss of appetite or weight loss, which can be signs of deficient cortisol levels.