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The Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) test checks the amount of ACTH hormone in your blood. ACTH is made by the pituitary gland, which is a small gland in your brain. This hormone tells your adrenal glands (found on top of your kidneys) to make cortisol. Cortisol is an important hormone that helps control your blood pressure, blood sugar, and how your body handles stress.
Doctors use this test to find out if your pituitary or adrenal glands are working properly. In this guide, you will learn why the test is done, how it works, how to get ready for it, what the results mean, and how much it usually costs in India.
Purpose of the Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Test
The main purpose of the ACTH test is to find out if your body is producing the right amount of ACTH. It's usually done when doctors suspect there might be problems with your adrenal glands or pituitary gland. Some common reasons for this test include:
- Diagnosing adrenal disorders
- Checking pituitary gland function
- Finding the cause of abnormal cortisol levels
- Monitoring treatment for hormone-related disorders
If your body is not making enough cortisol, or if it's making too much, the ACTH test helps find out why that's happening.
Why is the Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Test Important?
ACTH plays a key role in controlling cortisol, which helps manage the body's response to stress, blood pressure, immune system function, and energy levels. Testing ACTH levels is essential because:
- It helps find out if the adrenal glands are underactive (Addison's disease) or overactive ( Cushing's syndrome).
- It can detect problems in the pituitary gland, such as tumors or damage.
- It guides doctors in adjusting hormone treatments if you're already being treated for a hormone disorder.
- It helps in diagnosing rare hormone problems that may show symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, mood swings, or skin changes.
Understanding your ACTH levels helps doctors take early action before symptoms get worse.
When is the Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Test Recommended?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have signs that could be related to a hormone problem, such as:
- Ongoing weakness
- Sudden weight gain
- Low blood pressure or dizziness
- Darkening of skin (hyperpigmentation)
- Muscle or joint pain
- Mood changes like depression or irritability
- Irregular periods or loss of sex drive
It is also done if you already have a diagnosis, such as Addison's disease or Cushing's syndrome, to monitor your condition or treatment progress.
How Does the Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Test Work?
The pituitary gland makes ACTH and travels through the bloodstream to the adrenal glands. There, it tells them to produce cortisol. If your ACTH or cortisol levels are too high or too low, it may indicate a health issue.
The ACTH test checks how much of this hormone is in your blood. The results help doctors determine whether the issue lies in your pituitary gland, adrenal glands, or elsewhere in the hormone pathway.
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Get Second OpinionAdrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Test Procedure
The Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Test Procedure is quick and simple. Here's how it is performed:
How Should I Prepare for the ACTH Test?
To get the most accurate results:
- Fasting:Your healthcare doctor may ask you to avoid food and drinks for 8–10 hours before the test.
- Morning Timing: The test is typically conducted in the early morning because ACTH levels fluctuate throughout the day.
- Medication Check: Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, including steroids, as these can affect your hormone levels.
- Stay Calm: Try to stay relaxed, as stress can affect hormone levels.
What Type of Sample is Collected for the Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Test?
The ACTH test uses a blood sample taken from a vein in your arm. Since ACTH breaks down quickly after the blood is drawn, special handling is required:
- The sample is placed in a chilled tube.
- It is stored on ice and sent to the lab immediately.
How is the Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Test Performed?
You will sit comfortably to stay relaxed. The nurse will clean your arm with a wipe to keep it clean and sterile. Then, they will gently put a small needle into a vein and take some blood. After that, they will take out the needle and put a bandage on the spot to stop bleeding and keep it clean.
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Understanding Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Test Results and Follow-Up
Normal Range
ACTH levels are usually measured in picograms per milliliter (pg/mL). The normal range may vary slightly by lab but is generally:
- 10 to 60 pg/mL when the test is done in the morning.
High ACTH Levels May Indicate
- Addison's disease (adrenal glands not making enough cortisol)
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia
- Cushing's disease(due to tumor in the pituitary gland makes too much ACTH)
- Stress, infections, or trauma
Low ACTH Levels May Indicate
- Cushing's syndrome (from an adrenal tumor making too much cortisol)
- Pituitary gland problems (damage or tumors)
- Taking steroid medicines
Your doctor will review the results and may order more tests, like a cortisol test or imaging scans, to find the root cause of the imbalance.
What Should I Do After Getting My Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Test?
Based on your results:
- Further tests may be necessary, such as MRI scans or cortisol stimulation tests.
- Treatment may include hormone replacement therapy or surgery if a tumor is found.
- Lifestyle changes, such as managing stress, eating a balanced diet, and regular follow-up, may be recommended.
- Medication adjustment may be necessary if you're on steroids or other hormone-related drugs.
- Regular monitoring might be needed if you have a chronic hormone condition.
How Much Does the ACTH Test Cost in India?
Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Test Price in Different Cities Across India:
| City | Price |
|---|---|
| Hyderabad | Rs 1500 to Rs 1800 |
| Chandanagar | Rs 1500 to Rs 1800 |
| Karimnagar | Rs 1500 to Rs 1800 |
| Nizamabad | Rs 1500 to Rs 1800 |
| Warangal | Rs 1500 to Rs 1800 |
| Vizag | Rs 1500 to Rs 1800 |
| Srikakulam | Rs 1500 to Rs 1800 |
| Kakinada | Rs 1500 to Rs 1800 |
| Kurnool | Rs 1500 to Rs 1800 |
| Nellore | Rs 1500 to Rs 1800 |
| Navi Mumbai | Rs 1500 to Rs 1800 |
| Nashik | Rs 1500 to Rs 1800 |
| Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar | Rs 1500 to Rs 1800 |
| Pune | Rs 1500 to Rs 1800 |
| Sangamner | Rs 1500 to Rs 1800 |
| Bengaluru | Rs 1500 to Rs 1800 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
The ACTH test involves drawing blood from a vein, usually in your arm. You might feel a quick pinch or sting during the needle insertion. Any discomfort is typically mild and temporary.
You may be asked to fast for 8-10 hours before the test. Water is usually allowed, but it’s best to follow your doctor’s instructions for accurate results.
Yes, certain medications like steroids, birth control pills, or hormone therapy can affect your ACTH levels. Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you take.
Abnormal ACTH levels may indicate issues with your adrenal or pituitary glands, such as Cushing’s syndrome or Addison’s disease. Further testing may be needed for diagnosis and treatment.
The frequency depends on your symptoms and medical condition. Your doctor may recommend periodic testing if you're being monitored for adrenal or pituitary disorders.
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 days, depending on the lab. Your doctor will review them with you and explain what the results mean for your health.
