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The adrenal glands lie just above the kidneys and are part of the body’s endocrine system. Hormone signals from the pituitary gland cause the adrenals to release another hormone called cortisol.
The ACTH (cosyntropin) stimulation test measures how well the body’s adrenal glands work. Doctors use this test to help diagnose a condition known as primary adrenal insufficiency. This condition may occur after partial removal of the adrenal glands or other conditions that affect them.
The adrenal glands are part of the body’s endocrine system. These glands lie just above the kidneys. The glands make hormones that:
The adrenal glands respond to hormone signals. Hormone signals from a gland in the brain (the pituitary) cause the adrenals to release the hormone cortisol.
In the ACTH stimulation test, the care team gives your child a medicine called cosyntropin. It makes the adrenal glands release hormones, such as cortisol, into the blood. This test shows doctors how well your child’s adrenal glands function.
Your child can eat and drink as usual before the test. Give your child their usual medicine(s) on the morning of the test unless the care team tells you not to do so. Testing takes place at the Endocrine Clinic and lasts about an hour. Have your child wear comfortable clothes. Bring activities such as books, games, or tablets that they can do during the test.
Call the Endocrine Clinic if your child becomes ill before the test or if your child has taken any steroids within the last month.
You can stay with your child during the test. Before the test, the care team will place an IV in your child’s arm.
Your child should not have any side effects from the test.
Your child can return to normal activities after the test.
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Reviewed: July 2023