adrenocorticotropin

noun

Meaning

A polypeptide hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce glucocorticoids.

Examples

  • The patient's blood test revealed abnormally high levels of adrenocorticotropin.
  • Doctors often measure adrenocorticotropin to diagnose disorders of the adrenal system.

Synonyms: ACTH, corticotropin, adrenocorticotropic hormone