Synacthen Testing
Precise Short Synacthen (ACTH) stimulation testing to diagnose adrenal insufficiency and congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
Understanding Your Child's Growth
The Synacthen (tetracosactide / synthetic ACTH) Test is the gold standard diagnostic test to assess the reserve capacity of the adrenal glands to produce cortisol under stress.
Under the supervision of Dr. Smita Ramachandran, this test accurately distinguishes primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease) from secondary adrenal suppression.
When Is Evaluation or Testing Needed?
- A child experiences prolonged fatigue, unexplained weakness, or recurrent vomiting during minor illnesses.
- Darkening of skin creases (hyperpigmentation) or persistent low blood pressure.
- Weaning off long-term steroid medications (e.g., for asthma, nephrotic syndrome, or arthritis) to test adrenal recovery.
- Suspected Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH).
Early Attention Makes a Difference
Identifying cortisol reserve deficiencies allows for safe, personalized steroid management.
Accurate adrenal diagnosis ensures life-saving endocrine protection.
What Does the Evaluation Involve?
- Morning Timing: Scheduled in the morning when baseline cortisol is most physiologically meaningful.
- Baseline Draw: A baseline blood draw measures cortisol and ACTH.
- Synacthen Injection: A small dose of synthetic ACTH is administered intravenously or intramuscularly.
- Post-Stimulation Sampling: Blood is drawn at 30 and 60 minutes to measure peak cortisol response.
- Rapid Results & Management: Enables immediate tailoring of maintenance or emergency stress-dosing plans.
Slow Growth
Your child appears shorter than expected for their age compared to peers.
Poor Height Gain
Growth seems to have slowed or plateaued compared to previous years.
Delayed Development
Other developmental milestones may not be progressing as expected.
Other Concerns
Frequent fatigue, delayed puberty or any unusual changes in growth or development.
A Clear Path to Healthier Tomorrows
We follow a structured and compassionate approach to understand your child's growth and provide the right care at every step.
Consultation
We start with a detailed discussion about your child's medical history, growth pattern and your concerns.
Evaluation
We perform a comprehensive assessment including physical examination, growth measurements and relevant investigations.
Diagnosis
We analyse the findings to identify any underlying hormonal or medical conditions.
Personalised Care
We create an individualised treatment and management plan tailored to your child's needs.
Follow-up
We monitor progress regularly and adjust the plan to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Every child is different.
We are here to support yours, at every step.
Explore Other Services
Care for your child's growth, hormones and overall health, all under one roof.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to some of the most common questions about growth assessment and your child's endocrine health.
Yes, it is a safe and well-established test when performed under supervision.
Still have a question?
We're here to help. Feel free to reach out for more information or to book a consultation.
Partnering for Your Child's Healthy Tomorrow
Consult Dr. Smita Ramachandran for evidence-based diagnostics and compassionate hormonal care in New Delhi.