Specimen: Blood
Special Instructions: Patient Preparation – Collect specimen between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. If drawn at any other time, the reference ranges do not apply.
Results: 3 business days
Description:
The key function of ACTH is to stimulate the adrenals to release cortisol, a key factor in many functions in the body’s metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, sodium, potassium, and protein as well as blood pressure. ACTH levels in the blood are measured to help detect, diagnose, and monitor conditions associated with excessive or deficient cortisol in the body. Determination of ACTH is useful in differentiating between primary and secondary adrenocortical hypo- and hyperfunctional disorders: Addison’s disease, Cushing’s syndrome, adrenal carcinoma, ectopic ACTH syndrome, and adrenal nodular hyperplasia.
Methodology:
Immunoassay (IA)
Limitations:
With patients receiving more than 5mg/day of biotin, a sample should be taken no sooner than eight hours after previous dose. Patients treated with monoclonal mouse antibodies may have inaccurate results. High titer of antibodies such as streptavidin and ruthenium may cause interference. Due to its correlation with cortisol levels, ACTH concentration is affected by stress. Any single measure may be within the reference range for patients with increased production (Cushing’s disease) or minimal
Alternative Name(s):
ACTH
Note: Result turn around times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.