Description
Serum total cortisol concentration is increased in
critically ill patients with normal adrenal function.
In patients with hypoadrenalism recovery is
compromised and therefore assessment of adrenal
function is important. Adrenal function is
commonly investigated by measuring total serum
cortisol concentration during the synacthen test and
it is common practice for glucocorticoids to be given
to those patients who demonstrate sub-normal
adrenal function.
