ACTH

ACTH is a hormone that stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol.
It is part of the body’s stress response system (HPA axis).

ACTH is produced by the anterior pituitary gland.

🔬 How ACTH Works (HPA Axis)

1️⃣ Hypothalamus releases CRH
2️⃣ Pituitary releases ACTH
3️⃣ Adrenal cortex produces cortisol
4️⃣ Cortisol provides negative feedback to control the system

🩺 Why Doctors Order an ACTH Test

To evaluate adrenal and pituitary disorders such as:

• Cushing syndrome

• Addison’s disease

• Suspected adrenal insufficiency

• Pituitary tumors

📊 Normal Range

• Usually 7–63 pg/mL
  (Varies by lab and time of day — ACTH is highest in the morning.)

📈 Interpretation (General)

Doctors often measure ACTH and cortisol together.

📝 Key Points

• ACTH controls cortisol production

• Part of the stress hormone pathway

• Must be tested at the correct time (usually morning)

• Results are interpreted with cortisol levels

If you’d like, share your ACTH and cortisol values (with time of collection), and I can help interpret them.