Short Name: ACTH
Sample required: EDTA Plasma
Result Time: 1 Days

Adrenocorticotropic hormone is a polypeptide tropic hormone produced and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland, and is often produced in response to biological stress. Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is the primary stimulator of ACTH release, which in turn, induces the renal cortex to release cortisol and several weak androgens, such as Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Cortisol inhibits the release of CRH and ACTH by a negative feedback mechanism. HIGHER than normal levels of ACTH may be due to Addison’s disease, Adrenoleukodystrophy, Cushing’s disease, Ectopic tumor producing ACTH, or Nelson’s syndrome. LOWER than normal levels of ACTH may be due to Cushing syndrome related to adrenal tumor, Exogenous Cushing syndrome, or Pituitary insufficiency.