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ACTH

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Corticotropin
EDTA plasma (ice, process within 30 min or freeze immediately) ng/L

About this test

Pituitary hormone stimulating cortisol synthesis. Measured concurrently with cortisol to differentiate primary (Addison's — ACTH elevated) from secondary adrenal insufficiency (ACTH low/normal).

Reference Ranges

Sex Age Range Notes
All ≥ 18 yrs 7.2 – 63.3 Adult 9 AM sample

Clinical Interpretation

Low / Decreased
Low ACTH with low cortisol — secondary/tertiary adrenal insufficiency (pituitary or hypothalamic cause).
High / Increased
Elevated ACTH with low cortisol — primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison's). Elevated ACTH with elevated cortisol — Cushing's disease (pituitary ACTH-secreting adenoma) or ectopic ACTH.

Related Tests

9 AM Cortisol
Specimen
EDTA plasma (ice, process within 30 min or freeze immediately)
Reporting Unit
ng/L
Category
⚗️ Endocrinology

⚠ Clinical Note
Reference ranges are indicative. Always interpret results in the context of the individual patient and local laboratory reference intervals, which may vary.