Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Test
Understanding
Stress Response
With
Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Test
The
Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) test is a diagnostic test carried out to
measure the levels of the Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) in the blood. This
hormone is produced by the pituitary gland in response to the stimulus signal
given by the hypothalamus when the body experiences extreme stress. The primary
function of it is to stimulate the adrenal glands to release cortisol hormone
which is crucial in managing stress, regulating metabolism, and controlling
various other functions of the body. ACTH test results are used in combination
with the results from other tests to make accurate diagnosis and develop an
appropriate personalised treatment plan for better patient outcomes.
Overview of the Key Aspects of ACTH Test
Importance of ACTH Test:
ACTH test is
majorly carried out to assess the functioning of the adrenal gland and the
hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. It is useful in diagnosis of
diseases and conditions related to adrenal glands such as hormone imbalances
caused in adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease) and Cushing’s syndrome.
This test enables finding the root cause of these conditions and determining if
they originate in adrenal gland or are cause due to disruptions in functioning
of pituitary gland or hypothalamus. There are different types of ACTH test
performed; Corticotropin Releasing Hormone (CRH) Stimulation Test and
Dexamethasone Suppression Test.
Procedure:
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Before the test, doctors may
advise patients to stop taking medications such as corticosteroids as they can
interfere with the test results.
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The blood sample is drawn from
the vein in the arm of the patient and collected in the tube which is then sent
to the laboratory for analysis.
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If the patient is undergoing a
CRH stimulation test, he/she may receive an injection of the synthetic
corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) during the test.
●
The blood sample is then
analysed to measure the levels of Adrenocorticotropic hormone present.
Depending on the time of the day the sample was taken, the levels of ACTH can
vary as it is often found in a high level early in the morning and in low
amounts in late evening.
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The doctor will then assess the
results and interpret them based on the medical history and symptoms of the
patients.
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Healthcare providers will
determine if further testing is required in case abnormal results are reported.
Benefits:
●
Relatively quick and painless
with minimal to no side effects
●
Key diagnostic tool in
assessing adrenal gland functioning and dysfunctioning
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Gives detailed analysis of hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal
axis function
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Helps in accurate detection of
adrenal tumors and disorders
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Helps in monitoring and guiding
already administered hormone replacement therapy
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Helps in developing tailored
treatment plans for patients with adrenal disorders
●
Helps in evaluating stress
response of the body
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Aids in early detection and
treatment intervention
Patients must
inform their healthcare providers of their complete medical history including
current medications, recent surgical procedures, or diagnostic procedures
performed which can help in accurate diagnosis. Depending on the test, patients
may be asked to fast before the procedure to avoid any complications or
incorrect results. If the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding, it is important
to let the healthcare provider know as hormone levels can be influenced during
this period which may interfere with the test result. Patients must let the
healthcare provider know if they have any allergies, bleeding disorders, or
anxiety related to needles and blood draw; communication will help ease the
strain of the test.
