This test is useful for diagnosing and differentiating between exogenous and endogenous Cushing syndrome, as well as being a marker for AME syndrome. The signs and symptoms of Cushing’s Syndrome can differ depending on the levels of excess cortisol.
Common sign and symptoms include:
• Weight and fatty tissue deposits, generally occurring around the midsection and upper back.
• Pink or purple stretch marks on various parts of the body, such as abdomen, thighs, breasts, and arms.
• Thin and fragile skin that tends to bruise easily.
• Slow healing lesions, insect bites, and infections.
• Acne
ACTH is another common test in aiding of the diagnosis of Cushing’s Syndrome.
Preparation:
You must take your lab order to the lab to obtain a proper specimen container before collection. No fasting required. Urinate at 8am and discard the specimen. Then collect all urine in 24-hour period, ending with final collection at 8am the next morning. Refrigerate the collected urine between all voidings or keep it in a cool place. Screw the lid on securely. Transport the specimen promptly to the laboratory. Container must be labeled with full name, date and time collection started, and date and time collection finished.
Test Results:
7-12 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
