Type of sample/quantity required: at least 0.6 ml of serum for both samples (pre and post stimulation with ACTH): to obtain good quality serum it is essential to use tubes with separator gel and activator granules (these can be obtained from the laboratory by ordering them directly from the dedicated section of the online shop), wait for a clot to form, then centrifuge the sample for 10′ at 3000 RPM. The serum must then be separated as quickly as possible;

Storage/shipping methods: serum must be stored and shipped at refrigeration temperature;

Reception days: every day from Monday to Saturday;
Examination/reporting days: every day from Monday to Saturday;
Waiting times: reports are issued on the same day as the samples are received.

ACTH STIMULATION TEST IN DOGS
The test is used for:
a) the diagnosis of Cushing’s Syndrome (iatrogenic and spontaneous);
b) monitoring trilostane or mitotane therapy;
c) the diagnosis of Addison’s disease
CARRYING OUT THE TEST:
1) Perform an initial sampling to measure the baseline cortisol;
2) Inoculate 5 µg/Kg of tetracosactide (Synacthen) by IV or IM route;
3) Perform a second sampling to measure the cortisol post-stimulation, 60’-90’ after administering the drug.

ACTH STIMULATION TEST IN CATS
CARRYING OUT THE TEST:
1) Perform an initial sampling to measure the baseline cortisol;
2) Inoculate 125 µg tetracosactide (Synthetic ACTH) IV for cats with a body weight < 5 kg, and 250 µg for cats with a body weight > 5 kg;
3) Perform a second sampling to measure the cortisol post-stimulation, 60’ after administering the drug.
4) Perform a third sampling to measure the cortisol post-stimulation, 90’ after administering the drug.