Corticotropin (ACTH)

Corticotropin (ACTH) is a hormone produced in the pituitary gland that, once released into the circulation, stimulates the secretion of other hormones, in particular glucocorticoids (including cortisol), by the adrenals.

Glucocorticoids affect the metabolism of sugars and the formation of androgens. The production of this hormone is influenced by various factors such as stress, physical activity and hypoglycaemia.
The ACTH dosage is prescribed in case of suspected hormonal alteration that could be caused by adrenal or pituitary diseases such as Cushing’s syndrome, Addison’s disease and some cancers.