Exams and Tests

The doctor or health care practitioner may perform blood tests to determine which hormone level is low and to rule out other causes. The following tests may be performed:

• ACTH and Cortrosyn stimulation test
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• TSH and thyroxine test
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• FSH and LH and either estradiol or testosterone (whichever is appropriate for the patient)
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• Prolactin test
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• GH stimulation test

An MRI or CT scan of the pituitary gland may be obtained to determine if a tumor is present.

In children, x-rays of the hands may be taken to determine if bones are growing normally.