ACTH is produced in the anterior pituitary in response to corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) released by the hypothalamus. ACTH stimulates the formation and secretion of glucocorticoids (especially cortisol) by the adrenal cortex.

Plasma ACTH and cortisol levels show a diurnal variation with peaks at 6:00 - 8:00 AM and troughs at 11:00 PM. ACTH results should always be evaluated with simultaneously measured cortisol levels as ACTH concentrations vary considerably depending on physiological or pathological conditions.

Test Indications: This test is used to measure ACTH level and should not be confused with the “ACTH (Cosyntropin) Stimulation test” used to measure cortisol response to ACTH administration.

Patient Preparation Instructions: Multivitamins (45–125 µg biotin) or biotin-only supplements up to 1 mg per day do not interfere with this test. Samples should not be taken from patients receiving therapy with high biotin doses (i.e. >5 mg/day) until at least 8 hours after the last dose.

See F10-50-45D Approved Physicians for Specialist Endocrinology Requisition

1 – 13 pmol/L

Reference intervals are applicable to morning (7h00-10h00) collection.

Method of Analysis: DiaSorin Chemiluminescence

Although HAMA-neutralizing agents are added, extremely high HAMA (human anti-mouse antibodies) concentrations may occasionally influence results.

Assay demonstrates negligeable/undetectable cross-reactivity with the following compounds: ACTH (1-10), ACTH (1-24), ACTH (18-39), ACTH (11-24), alpha-NSH, beta-MSH, beta-endorphin, somatostatin, neurotensin, enkephalin.