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