Question

What condition results in elevated serum adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and urine cortisol levels?

Answer 1

Pituitary adenoma.

Explanation:

- Tumor of pituitary gland (=pituitary adenoma) tend to secrete pituitary hormones in increased amount. In most such cases levels of prolactin or growth hormone could abnormally rise, though there are instances when the pituitary tumor tends to secrete ACTH in large amount.
- Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) acts on adrenal gland's cortex area. It stimulates cortical cells to release steroid hormones like cortisol (glucocorticoid hormone).
- Increased amount of ACTH means excessive production of cortisol.
- In that case increased amount of free cortisol will be excreted with urine, which is an indication of Cushing's syndrome.