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HelpEpic Test Code LAB3100 ACTH Stimulation Test
Performing Location(s)
BMC
Synonyms
Cortrosyn Test, Synacthen Test, Cosyntropin Test
Specimen Type
Serum
Preferred Container
Gold or Red Top
Blood Tube Draw Volume
Min 50% draw volume
Minumum Volume to Submit for Testing
0.5 mL Serum
- Multiple test can be performed from this volume. For question please contact the lab at 547-3975.
Storage Requirements
Sample tubes should be centrifuged within 1 hour of collection followed by transfer of the serum to a labeled plastic aliquot tube. Specimens not delivered to the laboratory within 1 hour should be refrigerated.
NOTE: Specimens are good for 3 days if stored at refrigerated temperature (2-8 degrees centigrade). Specimens that will not be tested within 3 days should be stored at -20 degrees centigrade or below.
Transportation Needs
Deliver specimen to laboratory within 1 hour of collection if unspun. If not possible see "storage Requirements".
Causes for Rejection
Mislabeled or unlabeled specimen.
Less than 50% draw for Vacutainer tubes
Serum >3 days refrigerated
Limitations
Method may have a high cross reactivity with prednisone(34%), prednisolone(109%), corticosterone and with 11-deoxycortisol (compound S)(23%),
6-methyl-prednisolone(25%).
Cortisol is physiologically increased in patients with hypoglycemia, stress, and in pregnancy.
Heterophile antibodies in human serum can react with reagent immunoglobulins interfering with in vitro immunoassays.
This assay has not been validated with neonatal specimens.
Reference Values
|
Specimen Timing |
Units |
Reference Range |
|
Baseline |
ug/dL |
>5 |
|
30 and 60 minute post dose |
ug/dL |
"Peak" levels should be >20. The peak level is more important then the incremental change. An incremental change may not be seen at times of stress when adrenal output of cortisol is already stimulated by endrogenous "ACTH" |
Available STAT
STAT
Days of Analysis
All
Additional Information
This test is not available on a STAT basis. If an emergency request is necessary, call 3731 for availability. Pathologist approval may be required
Patient is injected with either Synacthen or Cortrosyn and timed serum cortisols are collected. Test includes changes in sequential cortisol levels
Includes
Coritsol at baseline, 30 and 60 minutes post dose. Each tube must be labeled accordingly.
Methodology
Competitive Immunoassay, Chemiluminescence
CPT Code
80400, 82533
Last Updated
18-Mar-22 BHD