ACTH (cosyntropin) stimulation test
Background
- ACTH (cosyntropin) stimulation test measures how well the adrenal glands respond to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
- ACTH is a hormone produced in the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal glands to release a hormone called cortisol
- Man-made form of ACTH is called cosyntropin
Test
- Before: Draw serum cortisol
- Time 0: Give 0.25mg IM/IV of ACTH (Cosyntropin) over 2min (0.125mg if <2yrs old)
- Time 30: Draw serum cortisol
- Time 60: Draw serum cortisol & give 100mg hydrodortison IVP
- Normal Response: Cortisol level doubles from baseline after Cosyntropin administration
- Adrenal Insufficiency: Cortisol level fails to rise after Cosyntropin administration
Management
- If abnormal test, can give:
- Dexamethasone 6mg IV OR Hydrocortisone 100mg IV