ACTH Stimulation Test
7,300 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
Addison’s disease test, cortisol, ACTH Stimulation, hydrocortisone, compound F, cosyntropin stimulation.
Purpose
The ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone) Stimulation Test is a blood test that measures how well your adrenal glands respond to ACTH by assessing cortisol levels before and after stimulation.
This test helps evaluate adrenal gland function and diagnose conditions such as:
- Addison’s disease (adrenal insufficiency)
- Secondary adrenal insufficiency (caused by pituitary dysfunction)
- To assess cortisol production in people with symptoms like fatigue, low blood pressure, or unexplained weight loss.
Tests that can be done alongside the Baseline cortisol test, ACTH levels, Electrolyte panel, Renin and aldosterone levels, and Thyroid function tests.
This test is crucial for pinpointing the source of hormonal imbalances and guiding treatment decisions.
Patient Preparation
The patient should avoid medication that increases cortisol levels before the test.
Samples
1ml with a minimum volume of 0.7ml of serum collected in a red top tube or gel barrier tube. If you use a red-top, transfer the separated serum to a plastic transport tube. Store the sample at room temperature.
Reference Range
>18-20mcg/Dl
Results Turnaround
1-2days after receipt of samples
Diseases / Diagnostic indicators
Healthcare providers primarily use the ACTH Stimulation Test to diagnose adrenal insufficiency and assess how effectively the adrenal glands produce cortisol in response to ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone).
Some possible outcomes of the test include;
Normal Response:
Cortisol levels rise significantly after ACTH is given. This indicates healthy adrenal function and typically rules out adrenal insufficiency.
Suboptimal or No Response:
Cortisol levels remain low or do not rise adequately after stimulation. This may indicate:
- Primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease), where the adrenal glands themselves are damaged and cannot produce cortisol.
- Secondary adrenal insufficiency, when the pituitary gland doesn’t produce enough ACTH to stimulate the adrenal glands.
Early detection of these abnormalities is vital in preventing complications such as adrenal crisis, which can be life-threatening if untreated. For more on ACTH Stimulation Testing, read this study.