Endogenous adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
Endogenous adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) testing is an important diagnostic tool for evaluating adrenal function.. ACTH is a pituitary hormone that stimulates cortisol production in the adrenal glands, and measuring endogenous ACTH levels helps in diagnosing adrenal disorders, particularly Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism) and Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism).
Test name
Endogenous adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
Test Code
3002
Section
Endocrinology
Species
Canine and Feline
Specimen
2 ml EDTA Plasma
Collection Guidelines
- Collect blood using an appropriate EDTA (Purple-Top) vacutainer tube.
- Centrifuge the sample to separate the plasma. Transfer the clear plasma into a new, leak-proof plain EDTA tube and label it as “Plasma.”
- Avoid using excessively hemolyzed samples, as they are unsuitable for this test.
- Unspun samples will not be accepted.
- Refrigerate the sample at 4°C until shipment.
Turnaround time
14-21 days
Packing Instructions
Label each sample with the animal’s name and a unique identifier, using a permanent marker or a secure adhesive label. Ensure the submittal form is completed with the animal’s information and relevant medical history.
References
- Behrend, E.N., et al. “Endocrine Testing and the Role of ACTH Measurement in Veterinary Endocrinology.” Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 2022.
- Peterson, M.E., & Kemppainen, R.J. “ACTH and Cortisol Testing for Diagnosing Adrenal Disorders in Small Animals.” Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2021.
- Kooistra, H.S., et al. “Advances in the Diagnosis and Management of Adrenal Diseases in Domestic Animals.” Veterinary Pathology, 2023.
