Adrenocorticotropic hormone, commonly known as ACTH, is a chemical messenger secreted by the body’s pituitary gland. It is a tropic hormone, meaning that ACTH stimulates the production of the stress response hormone cortisol and thus plays an important role in stress management. A high adrenocorticotropic hormone level is of serious concern.
Let’s understand the increased range of ACTH and its health implications.
What is the Range for a High ACTH Hormone Level?
The body’s ACTH levels are generally high in the morning and low during night time. However, this pattern might be affected by your daily routine and sleep schedule. Following is the range indicating a high ACTH level-
- Adults
i) more than 10-60 pg/ml for an early morning sample
ii) more than 20 pg/ml for a late afternoon sample
- Children
i) more than 6-55 pg/ ml for children between 10-18 years
ii) more than 5-46 pg/ml for children between 1 week to 9 years
It is important to note that normal value ranges might slightly differ across different laboratories. However, the representation largely remains the same due to only marginal differences in the test results.
An ATCH hormone high scenario can arise due to several reasons like-
- Cushing’s Disease
- Ectopic Cushing Syndrome
- Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
- Primary Adrenal Insufficiency (Addison's Disease)
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type I
Additionally, the detection of high adrenocorticotropic hormone levels in the body can also be due to the following common factors-
- Stress and/or trauma
- Menstruation
- Pregnancy
- Sleep issues
- Certain Medications
What Happens When ACTH Levels Are High?
A high ACTH level can be a cause for worry because it can indicate the prevalence of numerous health complications. An increased concentration of the hormone in the blood can lead to several physiological effects. It signals the adrenal gland to secrete more cortisol. A high cortisol range can, in turn, have physical, mental, and metabolic effects.
Conclusion
ACTH hormone high treatment is crucial to prevent the underlying causes from developing into serious health conditions. Many of the causes of high levels of ACTH have the potential to aggravate and cause mass effects. It is therefore recommended to buy a health insurance plan that provides comprehensive coverage against critical illnesses and associated conditions.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.