ACTH Test

What is adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)

ACTH (adrenocorticotropic) is a hormone made by the pituitary gland, a small gland at the base of the brain. ACTH controls the production of another hormone called cortisol.

Cortisol is made by the adrenal glands, two small glands located above the kidneys. Cortisol plays an important role in helping you to:

• Respond to stress
• Fight infection
• Regulate blood sugar
• Maintain blood pressure
• Regulate metabolism, the process of how your body uses food and energy

Too much or too little cortisol can cause serious health problems.

What is an adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) test?

This test measures the level of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in the blood.

Other names for ACTH test:

• Serum adrenocorticotropic hormone
• Highly-sensitive ACTH
• Adrenocorticotrophin
• Corticotropin

Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test?

You may need to fast (not eat or drink) overnight before testing. Tests are usually done early in the morning because cortisol levels change throughout the day.

ACTH Test Results

ACTH is measured in picograms per milliliter (pg/mL). Test results are influenced by the time of day the test was done. Normal results are:

Adults: 6-76 pg/ml (1.3-16.7 pmol/L)