Question

A dynamic function test involves stimulating or suppressing a particular hormone to determine if there is an excess or deficiency of production of a certain hormone. Which of the following is correct?

1. all are correct

2. If excess is suspected, a stimulation test is performed. If deficiency is suspected, a suppression test is performed.

3. it depends on the doctor’s request

4. If excess is suspected, a suppression test is performed. If deficiency is suspected, a stimulation test is performed.

Answer 1

If excess is suspected a suppression test is performed and if deficiency is suspected stimulation test is performed

Dynamic function test

Dynamic function tests involve either stimulating or suppressing a particular hormonal axis and observing the appropriate hormonal response.

In general, if a deficiency is suspected a stimulation test should be used whilst if excess is considered likely, a suppression test is required.

For example :- in Cushing syndrome there is excess of glucorticoid, hence for diagnosis we perform "dexamethasone suppression" test.