Cortisol Stimulation by ACTH Test
Short Name: ACTH Stimulation Test
Also known as: ACTH Stimulation Test, Cosyntropin Stimulation Test
Cortisol Stimulation by ACTH Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,931. Uses Chemiluminescent Immunoassay on Serum samples. Results in Results are typically available within 24 hours via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Ramarao Paidisetty
Consultant Biochemist · Reg: 21504
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the Cortisol Stimulation by ACTH Test is to diagnose adrenal disorders by measuring the adrenal gland's ability to produce cortisol in response to ACTH stimulation, helping identify conditions like adrenal insufficiency or Cushing's syndrome.
- Test Code
- 357
- Price
- ₹1,931
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Results are typically available within 24 hours via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
- Fasting Required
- Yes (8 hours)
- Method
- Chemiluminescent Immunoassay
Sample Collection
Fast overnight for at least 8-12 hours. Avoid strenuous activity and inform your doctor about any medications, especially steroids or hormones.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A healthcare professional will draw a baseline blood sample, administer synthetic ACTH via injection, and collect additional samples at 30 and 60 minutes.
Report Delivery
Monitor for any mild side effects like bruising at the injection site. Resume normal activities unless advised otherwise.
Timeline: Results are typically available within 24 hours via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Cortisol Stimulation by ACTH Test is to diagnose adrenal disorders by measuring the adrenal gland's ability to produce cortisol in response to ACTH stimulation, helping identify conditions like adrenal insufficiency or Cushing's syndrome.
How to Prepare
- Fast overnight for at least 8 hours before the test
- Bring a list of current medications to the collection center
- Wear comfortable clothing with easy access to arms for blood draw
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol on the day of the test
- Inform the phlebotomist of any bleeding disorders or allergies
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Ramarao Paidisetty — MBBS, MD (Biochemistry) · Reg. No. 21504
"This test is essential for evaluating adrenal function and diagnosing conditions like Addison's disease or Cushing's syndrome."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or lipemic samples
- Improper labeling or missing time marks
- Insufficient sample volume
- Samples not stored at recommended temperatures
Understanding Your Results
Indicates healthy adrenal function
Range: Cortisol increases to >18 µg/dL at 60 minutes
Suggests adrenal gland dysfunction, as in Addison's disease
Range: Low baseline cortisol with minimal increase post-ACTH
May indicate pituitary or hypothalamic issues affecting ACTH production
Range: Low baseline cortisol with delayed or subnormal increase
Possible adrenal overactivity or cortisol excess
Range: Elevated baseline cortisol with exaggerated response
Consult your doctor if you experience persistent symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or high blood pressure, or if your test results are abnormal.
Limitations
- ⚠May not distinguish between primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency without additional tests
- ⚠Requires injection of synthetic ACTH, which is not supplied by the lab
- ⚠Results can be affected by recent steroid use or adrenal fatigue
- ⚠Not suitable for patients with known allergy to synthetic ACTH
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising or soreness at the blood draw site
- ●Rare risk of infection or allergic reaction to synthetic ACTH
- ●Possible dizziness or lightheadedness during blood collection
Interfering Factors
- ●Medications such as corticosteroids, estrogens, and anticonvulsants
- ●Acute illness or stress, which can alter cortisol levels
- ●Pregnancy, as cortisol levels naturally increase
- ●Time of day, since cortisol peaks in the morning
- ●Renal or liver disease affecting hormone metabolism
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Cortisol Stimulation by ACTH Test | Insulin Tolerance Test | Dexamethasone Suppression Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Cortisol Stimulation by ACTH Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
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