Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)

  • Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH): Used diagnostically in adrenal insufficiency and therapeutically in some inflammatory diseases.
  • Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH): Stimulates adrenal cortex to produce cortisol and other glucocorticoids.

Physiology:

  • Produced by the anterior pituitary, ACTH stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce glucocorticoids (cortisol) and, to a lesser extent, mineralocorticoids.

ACTH Analogues:

  • Synthetic ACTH (e.g., Cosyntropin):
    • Uses: Diagnostic tool for adrenal insufficiency (ACTH stimulation test).
    • Mechanism: Stimulates cortisol production from the adrenal cortex.

Clinical Applications:

  • Diagnosis: Evaluates adrenal gland function.
  • Therapeutic Use: Occasionally used for infantile spasms and specific conditions.
Advertisements

Adverse Effects:

  • Similar to glucocorticoid excess if used long-term, including hypertension, hyperglycemia, and fluid retention.

Thank you for reading from Firsthope's notes, don't forget to check YouTube videos!

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.