ACTH Stimulation Test - Androstenedione, Serum

ACTH Stimulation Test Overview

Tuberculosis is a chronic respiratory tract infection causing fever, cough and weight loss. It is commonly caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb). Many diagnostic techniques are available for diagnosis of tuberculosis which include staining, culture and nucleic acid detection. Among nucleic acid detection techniques are polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Cartridge based nucleic acid amplification technique (CBNAAT), Line probe assay (LPA), Next generation sequencing (NGS).
This is CBNAAT and detects DNA of M.tb along with resistance to Rifampicin

The ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) stimulation test, also known as the ACTH blood test, is a diagnostic procedure designed to evaluate the functioning of your adrenal glands. This test assesses how well your adrenal glands respond to stimulation by the adrenocorticotropic hormone, which is produced by the pituitary gland. By measuring the levels of cortisol in your blood before and after an injection of synthetic ACTH, the test helps determine if your adrenal glands are producing adequate amounts of cortisol.

The ACTH stimulation test is a crucial tool for diagnosing various conditions related to the adrenal glands, such as primary, secondary, or tertiary adrenal insufficiency. It can also help identify other adrenal gland disorders, like Addison's disease, and evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for these conditions. This test is typically performed under the guidance of a doctor and requires careful preparation and interpretation of results.

Written by: Dr Vishal Wadhwa, M.D, D.N.B Microbiology, Medical Affairs