For a brief introduction and guide to abbreviations, see Laboratory Tests: General Remarks.
Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) [S/P]
Reference range, target level, or decision threshold
2.2-13.2 pmol/L (10-60 ng/L) depending on method!!!
Interpretation of results
<1.1 pmol/L (5 ng/L) with hypercortisolemia suggests ACTH-independent Cushing syndrome
If ACTH is not suppressed (>4.4 pmol/L [20 ng/L]) in the presence of hypercortisolemia, consider ACTH-dependent Cushing syndrome; if ACTH is 2-4 pmol/L (10-20 ng/L), CRH stimulation testing is indicated.