ACTH: corticotropin.
* Signs and symptoms that are relatively specific for chronic primary adrenal insufficiency include hyperkalemia, skin hyperpigmentation, postural hypotension, and salt craving. Nonspecific findings in both primary and secondary causes include hyponatremia, fatigue, weight loss, joint pain, decreased appetite, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Hypoglycemia and hypercalcemia are not common.
¶ For night shift workers, measure basal serum cortisol when the individual wakes up.
Δ The ACTH stimulation test may be performed any time of day. However, if baseline ACTH and aldosterone levels are being obtained with stimulation test, the test must be performed in the morning, between 8 and 9 AM.