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Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)
Probing Pituitary Function for Comprehensive Endocrine Health Assessment
Sample Type
blood
Fasting Required
No
Description
Adrenocorticotropic hormone ( ACTH; also adrenocorticotropin, corticotropin) is a polypeptide tropic hormone produced by and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. It is also used as a medication and diagnostic agent.
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Adrenocorticotropic hormone ( ACTH; also adrenocorticotropin, corticotropin) is a polypeptide tropic hormone produced by and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. It is also used as a medication and diagnostic agent.
An ACTH test is used to help diagnose and monitor conditions that affect cortisol levels. These conditions include disorders of the pituitary and adrenal glands. High cortisol levels may be from: Cushing's disease, a tumor in the pituitary gland that's usually benign (not cancer).
9 to 52 pg/mL (2 to 11 pmol/L)
A high level of Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) is seen in certain diseases:
Cushing's disease: This is the most common cause of increased ACTH levels. A benign (non-cancerous) tumor (adenoma) in your pituitary gland that produces excess amounts of ACTH, which then elevates cortisol levels, causes ACTH.
A low level of Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) is seen in certain diseases:
Addison's disease, an autoimmune disorder which attacks the adrenal glands, impairing cortisol production, an underactive pituitary gland or adrenal fatigue.
blood
Frequently Asked Question
ACTH stimulates the adrenal glands to produce and release cortisol, a hormone involved in the body's stress response, metabolism, immune function, and regulation of blood pressure. ACTH also influences the production of other adrenal hormones, such as aldosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).
Normal ranges for ACTH levels can vary depending on the laboratory and the specific assay used for testing. In general, normal fasting ACTH levels range from about 10 to 60 picograms per milliliter (pg/mL).
ACTH release is primarily regulated by a negative feedback mechanism involving the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands. The hypothalamus releases corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which stimulates the pituitary gland to release ACTH. ACTH then stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. Elevated cortisol levels inhibit the release of CRH and ACTH through negative feedback.
ACTH stimulates the synthesis and secretion of cortisol, which helps the body respond to stress by increasing blood sugar levels, suppressing the immune system, and mobilizing energy stores. It also regulates metabolism, blood pressure, electrolyte balance, and inflammation.
ACTH levels may be checked as part of the diagnostic workup for conditions such as Addison's disease, Cushing's syndrome, pituitary or adrenal tumors, and other adrenal disorders. Your healthcare provider may recommend ACTH testing if you have symptoms suggestive of these conditions or if other tests suggest hormonal imbalances.
Abnormalities in ACTH levels can occur due to various conditions such as Addison's disease (adrenal insufficiency), Cushing's syndrome (excess cortisol production), pituitary tumors (e.g., Cushing's disease, ACTH-secreting adenomas), adrenal tumors, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and ectopic ACTH production (e.g., small cell lung cancer).
ACTH levels can be measured through blood tests, typically drawn from a vein in the arm. In some cases, a stimulation test may be performed to evaluate the adrenal glands' response to ACTH stimulation. Imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans may also be used to visualize the pituitary gland and adrenal glands in certain conditions.
Treatment for abnormalities in ACTH levels depends on the underlying cause. Management may involve hormone replacement therapy for adrenal insufficiency, surgical removal or radiation therapy for pituitary or adrenal tumors, medication to suppress cortisol production, or other targeted therapies depending on the specific diagnosis.
Symptoms of abnormal ACTH levels depend on whether they are elevated or decreased and the underlying cause. Elevated ACTH levels may lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, muscle weakness, high blood pressure, and mood changes. Decreased ACTH levels may cause symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, and hyperpigmentation.
Report in 12 hours
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Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)
Probing Pituitary Function for Comprehensive Endocrine Health Assessment
Offered by other labs
Sample Type
blood
Fasting Required
No
Description
Adrenocorticotropic hormone ( ACTH; also adrenocorticotropin, corticotropin) is a polypeptide tropic hormone produced by and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. It is also used as a medication and diagnostic agent.
Covid Safety
Assured
Free Report
Counselling