ACTH Stimulation Test (Cortisol)

Tests the adrenal glands for Cushing's and Addison's disease.

About this test

Measures cortisol before and one hour after an injection that stimulates the adrenal glands. It diagnoses Addison's disease, helps with Cushing's disease (drinking and urinating more, a pot belly, a thinning coat), and monitors dogs on treatment for Cushing's.

What it measures

Cortisol before stimulation
Cortisol 1 hour after ACTH

Before the test

The visit takes about an hour and a half. If your dog is already on treatment, ask your vet when to give the morning dose.

Good to know

Done at our centre: it needs an injection and a second sample an hour later.