Please note that this site is unsupported on Internet Explorer, and may not function as intended.

We recommend upgrading to the latest version of Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome or Firefox.

Test & Collection Guide

 New search...

Keyword Search:

Test name:

   

Manual search:

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

NUMBER

ALL

Dexamethasone Suppression Test

Laboratory:
Unassigned
Specimen types:
Serum
Container types:
Serum tube with gelSerum tube with gel
Collection Instructions:

The Dexamethasone Suppression Test (DST), also referred to as the "low dose DST" or "overnight DST", is a screening test for Cushing's Syndrome.

The requesting clinician should give the patient a 1mg dexamethasone tablet with instructions to take it at 11 pm. (for outpatients: the tablet should only be taken Sunday to Friday evening, to ensure collection next day.)

The patient must present to the collection centre the following morning ( preferably before 10am ) and have a serum sample taken for cortisol analysis.

If there is any doubt do not send the patient away without documented consultation with a senior scientist. ( 9895 3548)

Endocrine consultation is suggested for "High Dose DST".

Dexamethasone levels will not be performed without consultation with Endocrinology and the Chemical Pathologist.

Frequency:
Daily
Result Turnaround Time:
2-4 hours
Reference Interval:

Cortisol < 50 nmol/L is considered normal and NOT consistent with Cushing's Syndrome.

Laboratory Use Only
Storage Instructions:

Endocrine consultation is suggested for "High Dose DST".

Laboratory Notes:

Dexamethasone Level requires 2 mL aliquot of serum or plasma, Transported on Ice, to:

Analytical Chemistry HPLC - Central (RBWH)

Pathology Handbook

Test & Collection Guide