ACTH Plasma Test (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone)
The ACTH plasma test measures adrenocorticotropic hormone in a blood sample. Quest describes it as used to evaluate adrenal and pituitary function and to help evaluate hormone imbalances such as Addison's disease or Cushing's syndrome.
About this test
ACTH is a peptide hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal cortex to form and secrete glucocorticoids such as cortisol. Because ACTH levels vary through the day, Quest notes the collection time for interpretation, and the sample is collected as frozen plasma in an EDTA (lavender-top) tube, analyzed using electrochemiluminescence.
Quest describes this test as part of the differential diagnosis of a number of conditions, including Cushing's disease, autonomous ACTH-producing pituitary tissue, Nelson's syndrome, hypopituitarism with ACTH deficiency, ectopic ACTH syndrome, and adrenocortical insufficiency (Addison's disease). It may also be used with suppression or stimulation tests alongside cortisol measurements.
Who might consider this test?
- Because ACTH levels change through the day, the timing of the draw and the clinical question behind it both shape how the result is read.
Test details
| Quest code | 211 |
|---|---|
| Methodology | Electrochemiluminescence |
| Sample type | 1.5 mL frozen plasma |
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
Reference range
7.2-63.3 pg/mL
Reference ranges are general guidance. The range printed on your own laboratory report is the one that applies to your result.
Related tests and panels
A wide hormone and wellness panel measuring testosterone, thyroid and metabolic…
Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports the plasma concentration of ACTH, the pituitary hormone that stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. Quest lists the test under names including Plasma Adrenocorticotropic Hormone and Corticotropin, which describe the same measurement.
How it's often used alongside other tests
Quest notes that ACTH not produced by the pituitary is called ectopic ACTH, most often associated with small cell lung carcinoma and, less often, with thymic tumors, pancreatic adenocarcinomas or bronchial carcinoids that may secrete ACTH precursors. Because the source of an abnormal ACTH result matters, a clinician typically reads it together with cortisol testing and clinical history rather than by itself.
Order online and a physician order is included — no doctor's visit and no insurance needed. Your sample is collected at a Quest Diagnostics patient service center.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does the ACTH plasma test measure?
It measures the plasma concentration of ACTH, a peptide hormone produced by the pituitary gland, using electrochemiluminescence.
How is the ACTH sample collected?
The test uses a frozen plasma sample collected in an EDTA (lavender-top) tube during a routine blood draw. Because ACTH varies through the day, Quest notes the collection time for interpretation.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
Why might a clinician order this test?
Quest describes it as used in the differential diagnosis of Cushing's disease, Nelson's syndrome, hypopituitarism with ACTH deficiency, ectopic ACTH syndrome, and adrenocortical insufficiency (Addison's disease).
What is ectopic ACTH?
Quest describes ectopic ACTH as ACTH not produced by the pituitary gland, most often associated with small cell lung carcinoma and, less often, with thymic tumors, pancreatic adenocarcinomas or bronchial carcinoids.
Can I get the ACTH test without a doctor's visit or insurance?
Yes. The $149 cash price includes an independent physician's order, so no referral is needed, and insurance is never involved.