OVERVIEW
The ACTH stimulation test measures how well the adrenal glands respond to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH is a hormone produced in the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal glands to release a hormone called cortisol.
TEST INTERPRETATIONS:
Normal Results
An increase in cortisol after stimulation by ACTH is expected. Cortisol level after ACTH stimulation should be higher than 18 to 20 mcg/dL or 497 to 552 nmol/L, depending on the dose of ACTH used.
Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some labs use different measurements or may test different specimens. Talk to your provider about the meaning of your specific test results.
What Abnormal Results Mean
This test is helpful in finding out if you have:
- Acute adrenal crisis (a life-threatening condition that occurs when there is not enough cortisol)
- Addison disease (adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol)
- Hypopituitarism (pituitary gland is not producing enough hormones such as ACTH)
This test can help determine whether your adrenal and pituitary glands are normal. It is most often used when your healthcare provider thinks you have an adrenal gland problem, such as Addison disease or pituitary insufficiency. It is also used to see if your pituitary and adrenal glands have recovered from prolonged use of glucocorticoid medicines, such as prednisone.