Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH), Plasma, Six Specimens
Use
The Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) test measures the level of ACTH in plasma. It is crucial for evaluating adrenal function and diagnosing conditions related to adrenal insufficiency or hyperactivity, such as Addison's disease, Cushing's syndrome, and other disorders of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. This test helps in assessing whether the adrenal glands are producing the correct amount of steroids necessary for normal body function.
Special Instructions
This panel requires six separate specimen collections at sequential time points. It is essential in stimulation/suppression tests to monitor adrenal response to therapy or pituitary function. Detailed instructions for suppression/stimulation tests are available in the Endocrine Appendix of the LabCorp Directory of Services. Patients should stop biotin consumption 72 hours prior to sample collection.
Limitations
This test may show interference if the specimen is collected from individuals taking high doses of biotin supplements. Accurate results may depend on the timing of sample collection, especially in correlation with any stimulant or suppressant administered as part of the test protocol. The test may exhibit variability if samples are not collected and handled properly, as per protocol instructions. Care must be taken to adhere to these guidelines to ensure meaningful results.
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 42598-3
- 46963-5
- 39564-0
- 12458-6
- 12459-4
- 12460-2
- 12461-0
- 42598-3
- 39564-0
- 12458-6
- 12459-4
- 12460-2
- 12461-0
- 46963-5
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Multiple tube collection
Collection Instructions
Several tubes collected at sequential time points; follow detailed collection instructions in the Endocrine Appendix.
Patient Preparation
Avoid biotin supplementation 72 hours before collection.
Causes for Rejection
Improper handling or incorrect number of specimens.