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Testing Details

What is the ACTH Plasma Test

The ACTH plasma test checks how well your adrenal and pituitary glands are working. ACTH stands for Adrenocorticotropic Hormone. It is made by the pituitary gland and tells the adrenal glands to release cortisol. Cortisol helps control stress, metabolism, and immune response.

Doctors use this test to investigate symptoms like unexplained fatigue, weight changes, and mood swings. It helps identify hormone imbalances and can guide further treatment.

Why Order an ACTH Plasma Test

Diagnosing adrenal disorders
This test helps identify conditions such as Addison’s disease, which causes low cortisol, or Cushing’s syndrome, which results in high cortisol. Both are linked to abnormal ACTH levels.

Evaluating pituitary gland function
The pituitary gland controls ACTH levels. This test helps detect problems like pituitary tumors or hypopituitarism, where the gland does not produce enough hormones.

Monitoring stress response
ACTH plays a major role in how your body reacts to stress. If you experience chronic fatigue or anxiety, this test can show whether your hormone response is affected.

Investigating cortisol imbalances
If your cortisol levels are too high or too low, this test helps locate the cause. It tells your doctor whether the problem is in the adrenal glands or the pituitary gland.

Guiding treatment decisions
Doctors may order this test to monitor treatment progress for hormone conditions. It helps track how well your body responds to medications or surgery.