Type of sample/quantity required: at least 0.6 ml of serum for all three samples (pre and post suppression with dexamethasone): to obtain good quality serum it is essential to use tubes with separator gel and activator granules (these can be obtained from the laboratory by ordering them directly from the dedicated section of the online shop), wait for a clot to form, then centrifuge the sample for 10′ at 3000 RPM. The serum must then be separated as quickly as possible;

Storage/shipping methods: serum must be stored and shipped at refrigeration temperature;

Reception days: every day from Monday to Saturday;
Examination/reporting days: every day from Monday to Saturday;
Waiting times: reports are issued on the same day as the samples are received.

LOW DOSE DEXAMETHASONE SUPPRESSION TEST IN DOGS
The test is used to diagnose Cushing’s syndrome and can help distinguish between pituitary and adrenal Cushing’s syndrome.
1) Perform an initial sampling to measure the baseline cortisol;
2) Inoculate 0.01 mg/Kg body weight of dexamethasone by IV (given the small volume, it is best to dilute the dexamethasone with physiological saline);
3) Perform a second sampling to measure the cortisol post-suppression, 4 hours after administering the drug;
4) Perform a third sampling to measure the cortisol post-suppression, 8 hours after inoculating the drug.
Important: it is recommended that the test is started between 08:00 and 10:00 A.M.

LOW DOSE DEXAMETHASONE SUPPRESSION TEST IN CATS
1) Perform an initial sampling to measure the baseline cortisol;
2) Inoculate 0.1 mg/Kg body weight of dexamethasone by IV;
3) Perform a second sampling to measure the cortisol post-suppression, 4 hours after administering the drug;
4) Perform a third sampling to measure the cortisol post-suppression, 8 hours after inoculating the drug.
NB: In cats, the dexamethasone dosage should be 0.1 mg/kg body weight.