Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) TEST

This test measures the level of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in a sample of your blood. A hormone is a chemical messenger in your bloodstream that controls the actions of certain cells or organs. ACTH tells your adrenal glands, two small glands that sit above your kidneys, to make another hormone called cortisol. Cortisol affects almost every organ and tissue in your body. It helps your body: Respond to stress (cortisol is sometimes called the "stress hormone") Reduce inflammation Regulate blood glucose, also called blood sugar, and metabolism (how your body uses food for energy) Control blood pressure