metyrapone (redirected from metyrapone test)

metyrapone /me·tyr·a·pone/ (me-ter´ah-pon) a synthetic compound that selectively inhibits an enzyme responsible for the biosynthesis of corticosteroids; it is used as a diagnostic aid for determination of hypothalamicopituitary-adrenocortical reserve.

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me·tyr·a·pone (m-tîr-pn)

n.

An inhibitor of the hydroxylation of adrenocortical steroids administered as a diagnostic aid in determining pituitary gland function.

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metyrapone

a compound that selectively inhibits adrenocortical 11ß-dehydroxylase and the synthesis of cortisol.

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metyrapone test

blood levels of cortisol and 11-desoxycortisol are measured, before and after administration of metapyrone. In pituitary dependent hyperadrenocorticism, there is a decrease in cortisol and increase in 11-desoxycortisol; both values decrease if there is an adrenal tumor.