ACTH Stimulation Test For Aldosterone (3 samples), Serum Test

The Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) Stimulation test is a test usually ordered and examined by endocrinologists to assess the functioning of the adrenal glands and their response by measuring how well the adrenal glands respond to the adrenocorticotropic hormone. Adrenocorticotropic hormone is a hormone produced in the anterior pituitary gland of the body. It regulates the number of steroids produced by adrenals of the body.The test is performed on a sample of blood to measure the levels of aldosterone in blood. This test can be ordered if a person has symptoms of weakness or tiredness, temporary paralysis, high or low blood pressure and etc.

To stimulate aldosterone, foods high in sodium should be avoided and consumption of salt should be reduced to a minimum and eat food that is high in carbohydrate for 24 hours prior to testing. Women should ideally undergo testing during the first week of their menstrual cycle. Inform your doctor if you are on any medications or have any underlying medical conditions before undergoing ACTH Stimulation Test for Aldosterone. Depending upon your condition doctor will give special instructions. You may be asked to fast for 6 hours before the test. If required medicines may be stopped 24-48 hours before the test.

High level of aldosterone may be caused by a tumor in the adrenal gland or in response to some diseases and it can cause high blood pressure and low potassium level and low direct renin. Low aldosterone level can also be present and can indicate Hypoaldosteronism which can cause low blood pressure.Abnormal levels can also indicate some disease in the pituitary gland. ACTH cannot ensure accurate indication of the amount of aldosterone present in the blood. Some labs use different measurements and methods. Ask your doctor to know what your test results mean for you.

The test is done in the following manner The healthcare provider will tie the band around upper arm and take the first blood sample from the vein when you arrive. You then receive aninjection of ACTH, usually into the muscle in your shoulder. Your healthcare provider will take a second blood sample after 30-60 minutes. Along with the blood test, you may also have other tests such as urine tests. Your ACTH stimulation test report will be prepared in one to two weeks.