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ACTH Stimulation Test
ACTH Stimulation Test
50+ booked in last 3 days
No special precautions
Sample Type
Blood
Recommended for
Male, Female
Report
Within 24 Hours
Blood test at Home
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ACTH Stimulation Test Overview
Tuberculosis is a chronic respiratory tract infection causing fever, cough and weight loss. It is commonly caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb). Many diagnostic techniques are available for diagnosis of tuberculosis which include staining, culture and nucleic acid detection. Among nucleic acid detection techniques are polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Cartridge based nucleic acid amplification technique (CBNAAT), Line probe assay (LPA), Next generation sequencing (NGS).
This is CBNAAT and detects DNA of M.tb along with resistance to Rifampicin
The ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) stimulation test, also known as the ACTH blood test, is a diagnostic procedure designed to evaluate the functioning of your adrenal glands. This test assesses how well your adrenal glands respond to stimulation by the adrenocorticotropic hormone, which is produced by the pituitary gland. By measuring the levels of cortisol in your blood before and after an injection of synthetic ACTH, the test helps determine if your adrenal glands are producing adequate amounts of cortisol.
The ACTH stimulation test is a crucial tool for diagnosing various conditions related to the adrenal glands, such as primary, secondary, or tertiary adrenal insufficiency. It can also help identify other adrenal gland disorders, like Addison's disease, and evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for these conditions. This test is typically performed under the guidance of a doctor and requires careful preparation and interpretation of results.
Written by: Dr Vishal Wadhwa, M.D, D.N.B Microbiology, Medical Affairs
Reasons for Undergoing the ACTH Stimulation Test
Your doctor may recommend an ACTH blood test for several reasons, including:
- Diagnosing adrenal insufficiency (primary, secondary, or tertiary)
- Investigating suspected adrenal gland disorders, such as Addison's disease
- Evaluating pituitary insufficiency or tumours
- Assessing the adrenal glands' ability to produce cortisol
- Identifying less common conditions, like congenital adrenal hyperplasia or polycystic ovary syndrome
List of Parameters Considered During the ACTH Stimulation Test
The primary parameter measured during the ACTH stimulation test is the level of cortisol in the blood:
- Baseline Cortisol Levels: The initial blood sample measures the baseline cortisol levels, which should typically be around 13–14 mcg/dl in the morning.
- Post-Stimulation Cortisol Levels: After the injection of synthetic ACTH, a second blood sample is taken (usually 30-60 minutes later) to measure the cortisol levels. A normal response is an increase in cortisol levels, typically above 18-20 mcg/dl, indicating that the adrenal glands are functioning properly and responding to ACTH stimulation.
ACTH Stimulation Test Preparation
To prepare for the ACTH stimulation test, follow these steps:
- Diet: Your doctor may advise you to limit activities and consume a high-carbohydrate diet 12 to 24 hours before the test.
- Fasting: You may need to fast for six hours prior to the test, consuming only water.
- Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, as they may ask you to temporarily stop certain ones that could interfere with the cortisol blood test.
- Timing: The test is usually performed in the morning to align with the natural peak of cortisol levels, minimising the risk of false-positive results.
ACTH Stimulation Test Results & Interpretation
The results of the ACTH stimulation test are interpreted based on the cortisol levels measured before and after the ACTH injection:
- Normal Results: An increase in cortisol levels following the ACTH injection indicates proper functioning of the adrenal glands. Post-stimulation cortisol levels should be greater than 20 mcg/dl.
- Abnormal Results: Low cortisol levels or minimal increase after the ACTH injection may suggest primary, secondary, or tertiary adrenal insufficiency, Addison's disease, low pituitary function, or other adrenal or pituitary gland disorders.
Home Collection for ACTH Stimulation Test
While home sample collection is not typically available for the ACTH stimulation test due to the need for multiple blood draws at specific intervals following the ACTH injection, Metropolis Healthcare offers a range of other diagnostic tests with the convenience of home collection. Their trained phlebotomists ensure comfort, safety, and adherence to the highest standards of sample handling and testing accuracy. With timely and reliable results, Metropolis Healthcare is committed to making quality diagnostic solutions accessible and convenient for patients in the comfort of their homes.
ACTH Stimulation Test Price
Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostics centre and pathology lab in India equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies that provides the ACTH Stimulation Test with a clear pricing structure.
The ACTH Stimulation Test Price in Mumbai is ₹ 4,680 .
We are committed to deliver accurate and quality results from the best labs in India with complete transparency regarding test cost and turnaround time. No matter where you are, we strive to offer patients high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
ACTH stimulation test has been approved by WHO and also by Govt. of India as a screening test to diagnose patients of tuberculosis. Sensitivity of this test is high for pulmonary samples e.g., sputum, BAL.
In addition to detection of M.tb it can also detect rifampicin resistance
ACTH stimulation test detects DNA of Mtb and mutations which can lead to rifampicin resistance
During the test patient will be advised to rinse the mouth with clean water and then expectorate sputum with a deep cough. Aim is to get secretions from the lower respiratory tract which are not contaminated with sputum. Sputum sample will be collected in a screw capped container.
For samples other than sputum pls contact our customer care team before booking the ACTH stimulation test
M.tb detected - This means that the DNA of M.tb is present in sample and patient is likely to be suffering from tuberculosis.
M.tb Not detected - This means that the DNA of M.tb is absent in sample and patient is unlikely to suffer from tuberculosis. However, sensitivity of this test is not 100%. Repeat test on fresh sample or culture may be advised by doctor to the patient
M.tb trace - This means that DNA is detected in very low amount. In HIV patients, children and extrapulmonary samples this should be considered as true positive
Rifampicin resistance detected - This means patient is having a M.tb strain that is unlikely to respond to rifampicin treatment. Confirmation with LPA is advisable
Rifampicin resistance not detected - This means patient is having a M.tb strain that is likely to respond to rifampicin treatment. Confirmation with LPA is advisable
Rifampicin indeterminate - Rifampicin resistance could not be interpreted by the testing system
The ACTH stimulation test is a medical procedure that evaluates the adrenal glands' ability to produce cortisol in response to synthetic ACTH stimulation. It involves administering ACTH and measuring cortisol levels through the ACTH blood test before and after stimulation.
No, home sample collection is not typically available for the ACTH stimulation test. The test requires a clinical setting for the administration of synthetic ACTH and the collection of blood samples at specific times.
Normal cortisol levels before the ACTH stimulation test are around 13–14 mcg/dl. After the ACTH injection, they should rise to at least 18-20 mcg/dl, indicating a normal response.
The ACTH stimulation test is used to diagnose and evaluate conditions related to adrenal and pituitary gland function, such as adrenal insufficiency, pituitary insufficiency, and congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
The frequency of the ACTH stimulation test depends on the clinical need and the underlying condition being monitored. It is typically performed as needed based on symptoms or as part of a diagnostic workup.
The ACTH stimulation test is often scheduled in the morning to align with natural cortisol peaks and minimise the risk of false-positive results.
No fasting is required for the ACTH stimulation test. You can eat and drink normally before the test unless otherwise instructed by your healthcare provider.
Before the ACTH stimulation test, patients may need to limit physical activities, eat a high-carbohydrate diet 12–24 hours prior, and temporarily stop taking certain medications that could interfere with the test results.
The primary parameter in the ACTH stimulation test is the measurement of cortisol levels in the blood before and after the administration of synthetic ACTH.
The ACTH stimulation test should be done when there is suspicion of adrenal or pituitary gland disorders, such as adrenal insufficiency, pituitary insufficiency, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or when symptoms suggest hormonal imbalances.
The ACTH stimulation test typically takes about 1-2 hours, including the time for the initial blood draw, the administration of synthetic ACTH, and the subsequent blood draw.
The reports for the ACTH stimulation test are usually available within 8 hours depending on the day/time of sample collection and processing.
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