ACTH 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, Cortisol plays role in respond to stress,iInfections, blood sugar regulation, blood pressure regulation. ACTH and Cortisol are a part of Pitutiary Adrenal Axis.
Interpretation: High values are Cushing’s Syndrome (adrenal gland makes too much cortisol), Cushing’s Disease (tumor of a pitutiary gland causing high levels of cortisol). Low values are, Addisson’s disease where adrenal gland doesn’t make enough cortisol and hypoputiarism , where the pituitary gland does not make enough hormones.
Sample: Arm vein plasma(EDTA). Should be sampled in the morning(7:00-10 :00 AM) in cold EDTA tubes. Nonfasting
Working day: Everyday.
Result Time: Next day at 6:00 PM
