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Weight Gain, Hyperpigmentation, Joint Aches, IBS. Had A Cortisol And Acth Test. Ordered For Another Test At The Same Time
Question: Hi, I recently had a cortisol and acth test. The test was performed at 8:31am. Basically, the tests were high-normal, and my endo is ordering another cortisol and acth test. On the test, he wrote that the lab should be collected at 8:00am. How important is it to have the test performed at 8:00am? The lab order was faxed to me, and it's takes a couple of days for my endo to return my call. I've left a message with the nurse, but I know he's very, very busy.
Previous test results:
Cortisol 16.3 (2.3 - 19.4) mg/dl
ACTH 60.6 (7.2 - 63.3) pg/dl
Recent unexplained weight gain of 15 lbs in 21 days, fatigue, hyperpigmentation, joint aches, IBS, and several other symptoms...
Thank you!
Previous test results:
Cortisol 16.3 (2.3 - 19.4) mg/dl
ACTH 60.6 (7.2 - 63.3) pg/dl
Recent unexplained weight gain of 15 lbs in 21 days, fatigue, hyperpigmentation, joint aches, IBS, and several other symptoms...
Thank you!
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
ACTH is released from a part of the brain called the pituitary, it stimulates the release of cortisol.
ACTH and cortisol levels vary in an endogenous circadian rhythm. This means it is released a particular cycle over a 24 hr period.
The peak release is between 6 am and 9 am then it declines and reach the lowest between 11 pm and 2 am.
Because your values were high normal your doctor suggested a slightly earlier time so that it would be more likely be taken at the peak release.
Most persons recommend taking the sample at 8 am so it is important to take it at this time so that he or she can determine if your peak value is above the norm.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
ACTH is released from a part of the brain called the pituitary, it stimulates the release of cortisol.
ACTH and cortisol levels vary in an endogenous circadian rhythm. This means it is released a particular cycle over a 24 hr period.
The peak release is between 6 am and 9 am then it declines and reach the lowest between 11 pm and 2 am.
Because your values were high normal your doctor suggested a slightly earlier time so that it would be more likely be taken at the peak release.
Most persons recommend taking the sample at 8 am so it is important to take it at this time so that he or she can determine if your peak value is above the norm.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you so much for the detailed answer! I'll convey this to the lab and schedule my appointment accordingly.
Thanks again!
Thanks again!
You are welcome, feel free to ask anything else
Note: For more information on hormonal imbalance symptoms or unmanaged diabetes with other comorbid conditions, get back to us & Consult with an Endocrinologist. Click here to book an appointment.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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