Performed by Dr. Kavya Jonnalagadda at Sree Charith Hospital
The ACTH (Synacthen) Stimulation Test in Tirupati is a diagnostic procedure that evaluates how well your adrenal glands respond to hormonal stimulation. This test measures cortisol levels in your blood before and after administering synthetic ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) to diagnose conditions like adrenal insufficiency, Addison's disease, and secondary adrenal dysfunction. Dr. Kavya Jonnalagadda, an experienced endocrinologist at Sree Charith Hospital, performs this test with precision to provide accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans.
We believe in honest, upfront disclosure so you can make an informed decision.
A step-by-step look at what happens during this procedure.
A baseline blood sample is drawn to measure your cortisol level before stimulation, establishing the starting point for comparison.
Synthetic ACTH (Synacthen) is injected intramuscularly or intravenously to stimulate your adrenal glands to produce cortisol.
A second blood sample is collected 30 minutes after the ACTH injection to measure the initial cortisol response.
A third blood sample is taken at 60 minutes post-injection to assess the peak cortisol response and adrenal reserve capacity.
Blood samples are analyzed to measure cortisol levels, and results are interpreted to determine if your adrenal glands are functioning normally or if adrenal insufficiency is present.
A structured, patient-first approach from first consultation to full recovery.
Dr. Kavya Jonnalagadda conducts a thorough review of your medical history, current symptoms, and medications to ensure appropriate test timing and preparation.
Our dedicated endocrinology unit at Sree Charith Hospital provides a calm, comfortable setting with skilled nursing staff monitoring you throughout the procedure.
We use advanced laboratory equipment and follow strict protocols for blood collection, handling, and analysis to ensure accurate and reliable results.
Dr. Jonnalagadda personally reviews your results and provides a detailed consultation explaining findings, diagnosis, and recommended treatment options tailored to your condition.
What to expect at each stage of your recovery journey.
You can resume normal activities immediately after the test. Stay in the waiting area for 15-20 minutes for observation to ensure no adverse reactions occur.
Return to your regular diet and daily routine. Drink plenty of fluids and rest if you feel any mild fatigue or dizziness from the fasting period.
Laboratory results are typically available within 24-48 hours. Schedule a follow-up consultation with Dr. Jonnalagadda to discuss findings and next steps in your treatment plan.
If cortisol levels rise appropriately after ACTH stimulation, it indicates healthy adrenal glands and rules out primary adrenal insufficiency, providing reassurance and eliminating the need for hormone replacement.
Low cortisol response suggests Addison's disease or primary adrenal failure, enabling timely initiation of cortisol replacement therapy to prevent adrenal crisis and improve quality of life.
Abnormal results may indicate pituitary dysfunction affecting ACTH production, guiding further investigations and appropriate management of the underlying pituitary condition.
For patients on steroid therapy, results help assess adrenal suppression and guide safe tapering protocols to allow adrenal function recovery while preventing withdrawal complications.
Let's clear up some of the most common myths about acth (synacthen) stimulation test.
Get a personalised assessment from an experienced specialist. Understand your options, ask your questions, and decide with confidence.
