Description
ACTH is a polypeptide hormone produced in the pituitary gland. Its function is to stimulate the production of steroids in the adrenal cortex. ACTH secretion is under the control of the hypothalamic corticotropic releasing hormone (CRH) and by negative feedback from cortisol.
Indications
This test is useful in the differential diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency and hyper-secretion. In primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease), ACTH is typically elevated whereas in insufficiency secondary to pituitary dysfunction it is depressed. In Cushing's disease (hypersecretion of cortisol) ACTH level is increased. Whereas levels are decreased in adrenal hyperplasia and adrenal cortex lesions.
Sample Type, Quantity & Conditions
1 ml K2, K3 EDTA Plasma (Siliconized glass tube or plastic tube) Stability: 2 Hours at 22 °C 4 Weeks at -20 °C
Special Precautions
Draw morning sample (8-10 am) into ice-cooled EDTA tube. Centrifuge at 2-8°C for 15 min. Measure samples immediately or freeze them at -20 °C. Due to diurnal variation, sample collection time should be noted and standardised. Freeze samples only once.
Normal Range
7.2-63.3 pg/mL 1.6-13.9 pmol/L
