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Overview

ACTH Stimulation Test For Cortisol Test

ACTH Stimulation Test For Cortisol Test

also known as: Compound F (Two Specimens), Cortisol (Two Specimens), Cosyntropin Stimulation, Hydrocortisone (Two Specimens)

The ACTH stimulation test measures how well the adrenal glands respond to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH is a hormone produced in the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal glands to release a hormone called cortisol. This test is used to diagnose or exclude primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency, Addison's disease, and related conditions. During the test, a small amount of synthetic ACTH is injected, and the amount of cortisol (and sometimes aldosterone) that the adrenals produce in response is measured. This test may cause mild side effects in some individuals. Commonly reported reactions are nausea, anxious sweating, dizziness, itchy skin, redness and or swelling of injection site, palpitations and facial flushing, but should disappear within a few hours.

You may need to limit activities and eat foods that are high in carbohydrates 12 to 24 hours before the test. You may be asked to fast for 6 hours before the test. Sometimes, no special preparation is needed. Women should ideally undergo testing during the first week of their menstrual cycle as aldosterone (and occasionally cortisol) may be falsely elevated in the luteal cycle secondary to progesterone inhibition, leading to a compensatory rise in aldosterone levels. Moreover, it is advisable that you should either wear a sleeve-less or a half-sleeve shirt or wearing a shirt with full- sleeves that can easily be rolled-up till elbow so that the doctor can take a sample without any hindrance.

Your blood’s cortisol levels should rise with the ACTH stimulation if your adrenal glands are functioning as they should. Blood cortisol levels below the acceptable range following stimulation are considered low. These abnormal results on the ACTH stimulation test may mean that you have an adrenal condition such as acute adrenal crisis, Addison’s disease, or hypopituitarism. Blood cortisol levels above the expected range following ACTH stimulation may be consistent with Cushing’s syndrome.

A blood sample will measure your blood cortisol levels. Your doctor can use this sample as a baseline against which to compare the results of the second blood test. You will receive an injection of cosyntropin, a synthetic portion of ACTH. This hormone should trigger the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. Your healthcare provider will take a second blood sample after an hour. This sample will reflect your cortisol levels after your body has had time to react to the injection of cosyntropin. Both of your blood samples will be tested for their cortisol levels. You will typically get the results of your ACTH stimulation test in one to two weeks.

Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.8 mL (each specimen)
Container
Red-top tube or gel-barrier tube.
Type Gender Age-Group Value
Hepatitis B Core Antibodies
Unisex
All age groups
Antibodies are not normally present
Average price range of the test is between Rs.1810 to Rs.1810 depending on the factors of city, quality and availablity.

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Table of Content

What is ACTH Stimulation Test For Cortisol Test?
Preparation for ACTH Stimulation Test For Cortisol Test
Uses of ACTH Stimulation Test For Cortisol Test
Procedure for ACTH Stimulation Test For Cortisol Test
Specimen Requirements
Normal values for ACTH Stimulation Test For Cortisol Test
Price for ACTH Stimulation Test For Cortisol Test
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Popular Questions & Answers

I had unprotected sex on 24th july and my period is due on 1st of august but I am still not feeling any period pain and my stomach is bloating feeling discomfort and changes in vagina. please suggest.

BHMS, MD - Homeopathy
Homeopathy Doctor, Vellore
I had unprotected sex on 24th july and my period is due on 1st of august but I am still not feeling any period pain a...
Dear lybrate-user! Wait for 10-15 days more and confirm the pregnancy. Sometimes the periods may delay after sexual contact.
4 people found this helpful

I am a student in 12th. I am under weighted and I can't afford costly Whey Proteins Powder. So How can I gain weight by cheap of Household methods?

BHMS
Homeopath, Secunderabad
I am a student in 12th. I am under weighted and I can't afford costly Whey Proteins Powder. So How can I gain weight ...
Do not worry too much. Just focus on eating healthy homemade food. A balanced diet is essential for the body to maintain ideal weight and overall health. Have milk and milk products. Try eating all types of beans (daals) which are a good source of natural proteins. You can search the net for various types of food and their nutritional values. Do not forget to eat fruits and vegetables everyday so that you get supply of vitamins and other nutrients. Exercise should also form an integral part of a healthy habit. If you follow these suggestions, it will not only help you gain ideal weight but also make you energetic and help focus on your studies and future planning. Have your priorities and stick to the healthy lifestyle. Do get a routine medical check up along with some basic tests to ensure you are fit and healthy. Revert later with reports for clarification.
5 people found this helpful

My wife's health is low and weight is also low. She is 26 years old. I want that my wife should be in good shape. Please advise me sir.

BHMS
Homeopath, Secunderabad
My wife's health is low and weight is also low. She is 26 years old. I want that my wife should be in good shape. Ple...
See​ that she eats a balanced diet. She should also go for a routine medical check up just to ensure that there is no any health problem that remain undetected. Some basic tests are: CBC, ESR, blood sugar, thyroid test, urine routine, liver profile etc. She should also focus on exercising everyday. Add Yoga and pranayam which can naturally empower the healing system in the body. A healthy lifestyle can make a lot of difference in the long run. Please revert with the reports for further clarification. She can also start Homeopathy to help gain good appetite and thereby healthy​ weight. You can contact me online also.
1 person found this helpful

My wife is 42 year old. She is suffering thyroid knot at right side. What type of medicine she should take. My nearest doctor suggest aloevera juice take and rub jelly on neck.

MBBS, CCEBDM, Diploma in Diabetology, Diploma in Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics, Cetificate Course In Thyroid Disorders Management (CCMTD)
Endocrinologist, Dharwad
Mr. lybrate-user, Thanks for the query. First thing to be done is to do a Thyroid Function test, check the hormone levels and come back with the results. The swelling could be due to hypothyroidism or due to hyper activity. Plus there is a need to get ultra sonography of the gland should be done. Please do not rub any juice on the gland. It may do more harm than any good. The thyroid swellings occur because of some internal functional problems. Which can be detected only by proper testing. Hence you may have to go to an endocrinologist near by for getting these things done. Thanks.
3 people found this helpful

I have no child after my 4 years married life. I am under treatment since 2 yrs. The report of my anti mullerian hormone test is 1.27 NG/ML. Doctor told me that the egg quality is very low which affects for getting pregnant. Kindly advise me.

MD - Obstetrtics & Gynaecology, Fellowship in Infertility
IVF Specialist, Noida
I have no child after my 4 years married life. I am under treatment since 2 yrs. The report of my anti mullerian horm...
Hi. AMH of 2- 4 ng/ ml is optimum .However, this alone is not sufficient to arrive at a conclusion regarding the fertility status. We always co relate it with an ultrasound. Moreover. It is the egg number that can be commented upon and there is no test in the lab for egg quality except to see the fertilisation rate. Therefore. Kindly get ultrasound done too.
5 people found this helpful

Popular Health Tips

These Sexual Mistakes Compromise Penis Health!

MD - General Medicine
Sexologist, Delhi
These Sexual Mistakes Compromise Penis Health!

When it comes to maintaining proper penis health, most men have a very good idea of what to do. They know all the basics of penis care, from taking care to wash properly to regularly inspecting the manhood to applying a high-quality penis health crème. But in the heat of the moment, when sexual fun is getting hot and heavy, a man might make a silly mistake. Those sexual mistakes can compromise penis health in a serious way.

Not sure what sexual mistakes might be a problem? Here's a list of the biggest issues a man might find himself doing when things are hot - and might regret when things cool off.

1. That lube isn't really lube. A man who is getting it on but suddenly realizes the need for lube might reach for whatever is handy, assuming a bottle of lube is not available - and sometimes that means he will try to use anything from shampoo or conditioner to lotion or cooking oils. Obviously these things are not meant for use as a sexual lubricant, and can lead to dry and cracked skin, irritation and more. Using lube designed specifically for the sexual purpose is always recommended.

2. The condom is too small. Though it is very important to always wrap it up before sexual activity, the wrapping itself might sometimes be the issue. Using a condom that is too small might lead to a little irritation in the heat of the moment, but a man can often ignore that for pursuit of pleasure. The aftermath is when things get rough, as the penis can develop small cuts, tears or even blisters from the use of a condom that is too tight. It pays to test out a variety of condoms to find the best fit.

3. There's been too much drinking. Sometimes a bit of inebriation can be a good thing, as it lowers inhibitions and can help both partners relax before the main event. But too much drinking can lead to serious problems, including trouble with getting it up or issues with stamina. But too much alcohol consumption can lead to even worse things, such as forgetting to use a condom or even suffering memory loss that leaves a man wondering just what happened the night before. Avoiding this is simple: don't drink too much before a bedtime romp.

4. Cleaning up is not a priority. There are plenty of bodily fluids sliding around during sexual activity, and much of that understandably winds up on a man's penis. From the natural lubrication that occurs during sex to the traces of spermicide in the condom, there can be several substances that linger. A man who doesn't clean off his penis after sex is asking for trouble, as those fluids can dry on the penis skin, leading to itching, irritation and redness, as well as a potential penis rash.

A man who pays attention to good penis care should always remember that caring for the penis extends to those moments when things are hot and heavy. Not only should a man be fully prepared for any sexual encounter, he should also be sure to take care to clean up well afterward. Maintaining good health should also include regular use of a high-quality penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin). Look for a crème that includes a multitude of vitamins and nutrients, such as vitamin A for odor-fighting properties, vitamin E to keep skin supple, and vitamin C to enhance sexual health. Amino acids such as L-arginine for blood vessel dilation and acetyl-L-carnitine for protection against peripheral nerve damage are also helpful. Combine it all in a Shea butter base and a man has the recipe for great penis health.

21 people found this helpful

10 Signs You Might Be Suffering From Brain Tumor!

DNB NEUROSURGERY, M.B.B.S.
Neurosurgeon, Durgapur
10 Signs You Might Be Suffering From Brain Tumor!

A tumor is formed due to the uncontrolled proliferation of living cells. Generally, the cells in the human body continuously die and are replaced by new cells. Some cells are replaced frequently, like intestinal lining and skin, while some like nerve cells live longer and may not be replaced once they die. Natural cell death is mediated by genetic information and the body’s bio-chemical signals. In the case of a tumor, some cells develop genetic mutations, and stop responding to the ‘cell-death’ signals. They do not die and continue to grow to form a mass, stealing nutrients and oxygen from surrounding tissue. Brain tumor can arise from any of the many types of cells in the brain or its covering. These can be benign (less harmful), or malignant (rapidly growing). These tumours cause harm by following methods: 

  1. A rapidly growing tumor mass can press on normal brain tissue and damage them in the enclosed space of skull. 
  2. Stealing food and oxygen from surrounding normal tissue thereby harming them. 
  3. Increase the brain pressure and reducing its blood supply. 
  4. Secrete harmful substances causing cerebral oedema. 
  5. Some tumours like certain Pituitary tumours can secrete hormones abnormally and cause hormonal imbalance

Symptoms of Brain Tumour: 

  1. Headache: New onset regular headaches, without any history of having such frequent headaches in past, which becomes worse because of other pressure related activities, such as sneezing, coughing, exercising might be a possible symptom of brain tumour and issues related to such sudden and frequent headaches should be taken up with the doctor without any further delay. If headache is associated with nausea or drowsiness, it is to be taken seriously. 
  2. Seizures: Seizures or convulsions (fits) are amongst the most common symptoms of brain tumour, which might be limited to a particular body part or the whole body. It may manifest as frank convulsive movements of the limbs, twitching of one side of face, or may cause subtle and transient behavioral changes. New onset seizures in young people must be evaluated to rule out brain tumours. 
  3. Numbness in arms/legs: Numbness in parts of the body may be caused by a tumour affecting the sensory tracts. 
  4. Balancing problems: Poor coordination and balancing problems may arise as a prominent symptom for brain tumour affecting the hindbrain. 
  5. Memory problems: Lack of concentration and memory loss may be the only symptoms for the presence of tumour in the frontal or temporal lobes. 
  6. Nausea or vomiting: Nausea or vomiting might be the symptoms of many other possible health issues, but a headache associated with nausea and/or vomiting is a characteristic symptom of raised brain pressure. Such symptoms should be evaluated to rule out a brain tumor and should not be ignored. 
  7. Facial paralysis: weakness of one half of face, like deviation of mouth, drooling of saliva from one corner of mouth, inability to close eyelids etc. may be due to facial paresis caused by a brain tumor in the opercular area or in the CP angle. Such symptoms need to be investigated for a tumor. 
  8. Change in vision: A person suffering from brain tumor might also experience changes in the vision, dizziness, blurry vision, among other sight related issues. 
  9. Change in speech: Sudden inability to speak or understand speech may be due to tumors of the dominant hemisphere of the brain.
  10.  Hearing problems: hearing problems and other hearing related disorders might have the brain tumor of posterior fossa or temporal lobe as a possible reason. 

Diagnosing a brain tumour may include one or more of many tests, including CT scan, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), PET scan and biopsy. One should never ignore the symptoms discussed above and should visit a doctor, preferably a Neurosurgeon as early as possible. Brain tumors are easier to treat if diagnosed early. Certain small tumors can be treated with radiation alone. If surgery is required, smaller tumors diagnosed early have greater chance of cure. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a Neurosurgeon.

3122 people found this helpful

Peripheral Artery Disease!

MBBS, Dip.Cardiology, Fellowship in Clinical Cardiology(FICC), Fellowship in Echocardiology
Cardiologist, Ghaziabad
Peripheral Artery Disease!

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) happens when there is a narrowing of the blood vessels outside of your heart. The cause of PAD is atherosclerosis. This happens when plaque builds up on the walls of the arteries that supply blood to the arms and legs. Plaque is a substance made up of fat and cholesterol. It causes the arteries to narrow or become blocked. This can reduce or stop blood flow, usually to the legs. If severe enough, blocked blood flow can cause tissue death and can sometimes lead to amputation of the foot or leg.

The main risk factor for PAD is smoking. Other risk factors include older age and diseases like diabetes, high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

Many people who have PAD don't have any symptoms. If you have symptoms, they may include

  • Pain, numbness, achiness, or heaviness in the leg muscles. This happens when walking or climbing stairs.
  • Weak or absent pulses in the legs or feet
  • Sores or wounds on the toes, feet, or legs that heal slowly, poorly, or not at all
  • A pale or bluish color to the skin
  • A lower temperature in one leg than the other leg
  • Poor nail growth on the toes and decreased hair growth on the legs
  • Erectile dysfunction, especially among men who have diabetes

PAD can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, and transient ischemic attack.

Doctors diagnose PAD with a physical exam and heart and imaging tests. Treatments include lifestyle changes, medicines, and sometimes surgery. Lifestyle changes include dietary changes, exercise, and efforts to lower high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure.

1 person found this helpful

Know More About Atheroslerosis!

MBBS, Dip.Cardiology, Fellowship in Clinical Cardiology(FICC), Fellowship in Echocardiology
Cardiologist, Ghaziabad
Know More About Atheroslerosis!

Atherosclerosis is a disease in which plaque builds up inside your arteries. Plaque is a sticky substance made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Over time, plaque hardens and narrows your arteries. That limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood to your body.

Atherosclerosis can lead to serious problems, including:

Atherosclerosis usually doesn't cause symptoms until it severely narrows or totally blocks an artery. Many people don't know they have it until they have a medical emergency.

A physical exam, imaging, and other diagnostic tests can tell if you have it. Medicines can slow the progress of plaque buildup. Your doctor may also recommend procedures such as angioplasty to open the arteries, or surgery on the coronary or carotid arteries. Lifestyle changes can also help. These include following a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and managing stress

1 person found this helpful