ACTH

noun

ˌā-(ˌ)sē-(ˌ)tē-ˈāch 

: a protein hormone of the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal cortex

called also adrenocorticotropic hormone

Examples of ACTH in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

An endocrinologist may ask a patient to collect their urine over 24 hours to measure the levels of cortisol, ACTH, and other key hormones. —Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 29 Feb. 2024

The elevated 17-hydroxyprogesterone, ACTH [a hormone made by the pituitary that stimulates the production of steroids by the adrenal gland] and 11-deoxycortisol levels are indicative of a defect in the steroidogenic pathway that leads to cortisol deficiency and androgen excess. —Isaac S. Kohane, STAT, 23 May 2023

Word History

Etymology

adrenocorticotropic hormone

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

ACTH

noun

ˌā-ˌsē-(ˌ)tē-ˈāch 

: a protein hormone of the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal cortex

called also adrenocorticotropic hormone