ACTH Testing for Cushing's Disease
What is ACTH?
ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland.
It stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, which is important for stress response, metabolism, and overall health.
Why does my pet need this test?
An ACTH Stimulation Test may be recommended to help diagnose or monitor certain hormonal conditions, including:
Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism): when the body produces too much cortisol
Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism): when the body does not produce enough cortisol
Monitoring treatment: to ensure medications (such as trilostane) are working effectively and safely
When to Consider Diagnostic Testing
Diagnostics aren’t just for emergencies. They help detect early signs of illness, monitor ongoing conditions, and confirm what’s happening beneath the surface. If your pet isn’t quite right, testing helps us act early before things escalate.
What happens during the test?
An ACTH Stimulation Test is safe and minimally invasive:
A baseline blood sample is taken from your pet
A small injection of synthetic ACTH is given to stimulate the adrenal glands.
A second blood sample is collected one hour later to measure how the adrenal glands respond.
The sample is then sent to our Laboratory for testing, with results returning within a few days.
How It Works
Your vet will first examine your pet and discuss their symptoms or concerns. If testing is needed, we’ll explain which options are most useful and why. Most tests can be run the same day, and in many cases, results are available within hours.
This means less waiting, less stress, and faster decision-making.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
If testing is recommended, we’ll walk you through the process and what to expect afterward. Some diagnostics, like ultrasound or sedation-assisted imaging, may require a short stay with us. We’ll make sure you’re comfortable with the plan and follow up with results as soon as they’re available.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about senior pet care and our recommendations.
Typically, pets are considered senior around 7 years old. However, this can vary based on breed and size. Larger breeds may age faster than smaller ones.
Yes, we recommend checkups every six months for senior pets. This allows us to monitor their health closely. Regular visits can help catch any issues early.
We may suggest blood and urine tests to assess overall health. Blood pressure checks and imaging can also be beneficial if concerns arise. These proactive measures help ensure your pet's well-being.
Absolutely, we provide various treatments for arthritis and stiffness. Options include medication, supplements, and movement support. Our goal is to enhance your pet's comfort and mobility.
Yes, senior pets often require different nutritional needs. We can guide you in selecting age-appropriate food. Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining their health.
We can assess their cognitive function and recommend support.
Still have questions?
Contact us for more information.
Good care starts with Mosman Vet
Whether it’s a routine check-up, an unexpected issue or ongoing care, we’re here to help you make the best decisions for your pet’s health and wellbeing.