Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Test

This blood test measures levels of Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH).

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH or corticotropin) is a polypeptide hormone secreted the pituitary gland in response to the corticotropin-releasing hormone released by the hypothalamus. It stimulates the cortex of the adrenal gland, resulting in the synthesis of corticosteroids: mainly glucocorticoids, but also mineralcorticoids and, to a lesser extent, androgens.

Determination of ACTH is useful in differentiating between primary and secondary adrenocortical hypo- and hyperfunctional disorders: Addison's disease, Cushing's syndrome, ectopic ACTH syndrome, and adrenal nodular hyperplasia.