ACTH stimulation test

ACTH Stimulation Test

The ACTH Stimulation Test (pronounced as A-C-T-H Stimulation Test), also known as the Cosyntropin Stimulation Test, is a medical procedure used to assess the functionality of the adrenal glands.

Etymology

The term ACTH stands for Adrenocorticotropic Hormone, a hormone produced in the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal glands. The word 'stimulation' refers to the act of encouraging increased activity or action.

Procedure

The ACTH Stimulation Test involves the administration of synthetic ACTH, known as Cosyntropin, into the patient's body. This is followed by measuring the levels of cortisol in the patient's blood at different intervals. The test is primarily used to diagnose conditions such as Addison's disease and adrenal insufficiency.

Interpretation

A normal response to the ACTH Stimulation Test is a rise in blood cortisol levels. A lack of response, or a low response, may indicate that the adrenal glands are not functioning properly.

Related Terms

Adrenal Glands: Glands located above the kidneys that produce a variety of hormones including adrenaline and the steroids aldosterone and cortisol.
Pituitary Gland: A small, pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain, responsible for producing hormones that control various functions of other endocrine glands.
Cosyntropin: A synthetic form of ACTH used in the ACTH Stimulation Test.
Cortisol: A steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which is often measured in response to stress and low blood-glucose concentration.
Addison's Disease: A disorder in which the adrenal glands don’t produce enough hormones.
Adrenal Insufficiency: A condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce adequate amounts of steroid hormones.