Children with a variety of conditions, including asthma, arthritis, and cancer, who use steroid treatments will benefit from research funded by The Children’s Hospital Charity in 2016/17.
Dr Charlotte Elder developed a non-invasive alternative test for adrenal suppression, a condition caused when steroids interfere with the body’s ability to naturally produce cortisol. During times of illness and stress, this can be life-threatening.
The new test uses a nasal spray and saliva collection. It replaces the previously used Short Synacthen Test, which involved injecting Synacthen into a vein and taking blood samples — a process that was invasive, time-consuming, and often unpleasant.
Dr Elder’s research means healthcare teams can now test why adrenal suppression occurs in young patients, helping ensure that children like Harvey, who use inhalers, receive the safest and most effective care.
