Allergen, Individual-Drug ACTH Test

ACTH is a drug, which may result in allergy symptoms in sensitized individuals. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) has been used to manage asthma, and can be used during acute attacks of gout, because it stimulates the body to produce and release corticosteroids (cortisol) that naturally reduce inflammation. A test to measure ACTH is done to check for, any problems with the adrenal glands or pituitary gland. Overproduction of ACTH may be caused by an overactive pituitary gland, or sometimes by a tumor in the lung. This test measures the level of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in the blood.

You should not eat or drink for 10 to 12 hours before test. Eat low-carbohydrate foods for 48 hours before the test. Your doctor also advises you of any specific food that you should not eat. It is advisable to wear a something with short sleeves, sleeves of which can be rolled up easily. Make sure you tell your doctor about any specific medication you are taking, its affect can alter test results. Your doctor will tell you exactly how long depending on what medicine you take. Do not exercise for 12 hours before this test. Try to avoid emotional stress for 12 hours before the test.

High levels of ACTH may be caused by, emotional or physical stress, failure of the adrenal glands(Addison’s disease), a tumor of the pituitary gland, or a tumor outside the pituitary such as in lungs. Low levels of ACTH may be caused by damage to the pituitary gland from surgery, radiation, stroke, head injury, or a tumor in the adrenal glands (Cushing's syndrome) or Corticosteroid medicines. The test results will help your doctor in prescribing suitable medications and treatments required. Further tests may also be required.

Few milliliters say of blood sample would be obtained directly from you. As elastic band will be wrapped around your upper arm to stop the flow of blood and make the veins visible. Area of skin where needle is to be inserted will be cleaned using alcohol Needle will be injected in the vein which is visible. A tube will be attached to the needle to fill it with blood. A gauze pad or cotton ball will be put over the needle site as the needle is removed. If skin swells apply warm press to the needle site.