🩺 Affordable Private Healthcare

ACTH Blood Test

Price
£195

Turnaround

3 working days

Appointment

15 minutes

ACTH blood test
4.9
Rated 4.9 out of 5
4.7
Rated 4.7 out of 5
Care Quality Commission
Primary Care & Diagnostics Finalist Award

at a glance

pound iconPrice: £195

Turnaround: 3 working days

Appointment: 15 minutes

4.9
Rated 4.9 out of 5
4.7
Rated 4.7 out of 5
Care Quality Commission
Primary Care & Diagnostics Finalist Award

ACTH Blood Test Overview

No extra fees, and no phlebotomy fee.

Blood tests are essential for diagnosing diseases and assessing your overall health. If you are considering getting an ACTH blood test, our clinic offers quick and easy testing with no hidden costs, ensuring your results are promptly available for you and your doctor to review.

If you prefer to have your ACTH blood test done independently, we are here to support you every step of the way, always with no extra fees.

Doctor considering blood test options

What Is ACTH?

ACTH, short for Adrenocorticotropic Hormone, is produced by your pituitary gland (a pea-sized endocrine gland located at the base of your brain, below your hypothalamus, responsible for releasing important hormones). ACTH stimulates your adrenal glands (a triangular-shaped gland located on top of each kidney) to release cortisol, also known as the stress hormone.

Why? Because cortisol affects almost every organ and tissue in your body. It helps your body respond to stress, reduce inflammation, regulate your blood glucose, metabolism, blood pressure, and immune function. Cortisol is essential for maintaining your overall health and well-being, therefore ACTH (the hormone responsible for stimulating the production of cortisol) is exceptionally important too.

Why Is An ACTH Blood Test Important?

An ACTH blood test holds significant importance in clinical practice due to its role in diagnosing adrenal gland disorders, evaluating pituitary gland function, and monitoring treatment effectiveness for specific conditions affecting your cortisol levels.

Adrenal gland disorders, such as Addison’s disease (that produces low cortisol levels) or Cushing’s syndrome (that produces high cortisol levels), can also be accurately diagnosed through ACTH testing.

If you suspect any adrenal or pituitary gland issues, consult with your healthcare provider, who can guide you through the process of undergoing an ACTH blood test. Remember, timely diagnosis and treatment play a vital role in maintaining optimal health and well-being.

Woman doctor smiling
Woman doctor taking notes

Do You Need Testing?

You may need an ACTH blood test if you received abnormal results on a cortisol test or if you have symptoms of either too much or too little cortisol.

Signs of having too much cortisol in your body could include: Weight gain, a round face, thin arms and legs, increased fat around the base of your neck (or even your shoulder blades), you bruise easily, developed wide purple streaks on your stomach, breasts, or hips, and muscle weakness

Signs of having too little cortisol in your body could include: Long-lasting fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, belly pain, or muscle weakness. 

ACTH-Related Diseases

An ACTH blood test helps provides peace of mind as it measures the level of the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in your body and blood, which is a hormone that regulates multiple vital bodily functions. Health conditions causes by ACTH can include:

  • Addison disease
  • Hypopituitarism
  • Secondary adrenal insufficiency
  • Conditions associated with your adrenal glands
  • Conditions associated with your pituitary glands
  • Cushing’s disease (excess cortisol due to an ACTH-producing tumor)
  • Cushing’s syndrome (symptoms associated in addition to Cushing’s disease)
  • Nelson’s syndrome (a pituitary adenoma, when patients with Cushing’s disease have both adrenal glands removed, however the pituitary tumor continues to grow and release the ACTH hormone)
Blood sample tube for testing

Statistics​

Completed Blood Tests This Year
0
Biochemistry Tests Are Carried Out Per Year In The UK
0 Mill
Blood Tests For Each Person Are Performed Annually
0
Cervical Cancer Cases Are Preventable
0 %

How To Book Your ACTH Blood Test

book online or call us

Use our online booking engine or book your test by giving us a call.

Choose your test type

On the online booking engine select the “appointment type” you need.

meet with our experts

You will be seen by one of our friendly phlebotomists or trained clinicians.

Procedure

Type of sample taken: Blood
preparing for appointment

Preparing for test

Your healthcare provider will give you all the instructions you need on how to prepare for your ACTH blood test, which may include fasting for several hours beforehand. Your ACTH blood samples may be collected in the early morning when your ACTH levels are typically at their highest. You may also need to temporarily discontinue certain medications before your ACTH blood test, but do not stop taking any medications unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.

during the appointment

During the test

ACTH blood tests are straightforward procedures that involve taking a blood sample and typically only take a few minutes to complete. Your healthcare professional will first clean the area where some of your blood will be drawn (usually your inner elbow or at the back of your hand) with an antiseptic.

They will then insert a fine needle into your vein to collect a small sample. This sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis, where medical experts will measure the levels of ACTH in your blood to provide you with valuable ACTH blood test diagnostic information (typically reported in picograms per milliliter, i.e. pg/mL).

 

post appointment

Results

Your results will be emailed to you within three working days. You can then provide these directly to your doctor or discuss them with one of our City Walk-In Clinic GPs.

Depending on your diagnosis, your healthcare provider will either discuss various treatment options and management plans to address your specific needs and help manage your condition effectively or recommend further diagnostic tests to gain more detailed information about your condition. If necessary, your healthcare provider may refer you to an endocrinologist (a specialist in hormone-related disorders) for a more comprehensive evaluation and care.

Why Choose Walk In Clinic
for blood testing

No
Hidden Charges

Transparent fees. The price you see is the price you pay.

No GP consultation
needed

No GP appointment requirement for blood tests

Established
since 1998

Experienced doctors & a professional team.

Strictly
confidential

Your medical records are kept private at all times.

testimonials​

All reviews
4.8
Google
Google
4.8
Trustindex
Trustindex
5.0
Provenexpert
Provenexpert
5.0
Yell
Yell
5.0
ExcellentTrustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 54.8450 reviews
4.8Trustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 5
Excellent450 reviews
ExcellentGoogle star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 54.8442 reviews
4.8Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Excellent442 reviews
ExcellentTrustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 55.01 reviews
5.0Trustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 5
Excellent1 reviews
ExcellentProvenexpert star 1Provenexpert star 2Provenexpert star 3Provenexpert star 4Provenexpert star 55.01 reviews
5.0Provenexpert star 1Provenexpert star 2Provenexpert star 3Provenexpert star 4Provenexpert star 5
Excellent1 reviews
ExcellentYell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 55.06 reviews
5.0Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5
Excellent6 reviews
Posted on Google Google
Lucy Cropper profile picture
Lucy Cropper
31 August 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had a fantastic experience at the Harley Street clinic. Staff were very welcoming and professional and booked my second blood test here also.
Posted on Google Google
Truman Packard profile picture
Truman Packard
19 August 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The service was efficient, personable and very complete. The doctor who saw me was very good, patient and sensitive. I’ll be going back.
Posted on Google Google
Sue Heald profile picture
Sue Heald
11 August 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
As an international visitor, I was very grateful for the prompt attention to my request for an appointment. Dr Ali was respectful and empathetic in regard to my condition and suggested further treatment, which I was able to organise for the next day. Both offices I attended treated me appropriately and I would recommend Harley Street Health Walk-in Clinics to anyone visiting London who requires medical attention.
Posted on Trustindex Trustindex
Isabella Johnson profile picture
Isabella Johnson
3 August 2026
Trustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Trustindex.
Highly recommend City Walk-In Clinic Really pleased with my experience at City Walk-In Clinic. I booked a female hormone test because I wanted some answers about a few symptoms I'd been having, and the whole process was straightforward. The staff were welcoming, friendly and didn't make me feel rushed at all. The blood test was quick, and they explained everything clearly before taking the sample. My results came back sooner than I expected, and it was reassuring to have everything presented in a way that was easy to understand. I'd definitely use the clinic again and would recommend it to anyone looking for a private female hormone test. Professional service, lovely staff and an all round positive experience.
Posted on Google Google
Anabella Styles profile picture
Anabella Styles
9 July 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had a private gp appointment yesterday as my feet have been swelling every day over the past few days. So I booked an appointment with Dr Heather. Dr Heather explained the possible causes of the swelling, including the heat that we are currently experiencing in London. Recommended further investigation if the swelling persists, to identify the underlying issue rather than just making assumptions.
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Mary Anne profile picture
Mary Anne
3 July 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I have used City Walk In Clinic as my go to place for routine blood tests. My recent full health check gave my doctor some clues that i may be approaching my menopause era. So my doctor has recommended that i do some tests to find out if indeed i am entering perimenopause, as the symptoms are there. Will be having my tests in the next few weeks. So glad i had a full health check, because all these symptoms were driving me crazy.
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Dona P profile picture
Dona P
24 June 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Really good service throughout. Reception staff were welcoming and the blood test was efficient and quick. Highly recommended as blood tests can be booked on the day with results being sent very quickly.
Posted on Google Google
A B profile picture
A B
23 June 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great location for blood tests if you want very fast results! I got my results the same day, highly recommend!
Posted on Google Google
Grace Vizcaino profile picture
Grace Vizcaino
2 June 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Very good service at a very reasonable cost. Same day results, I do recommend this clinic and would certainly be using it again.
Posted on Google Google
Shona McGovern profile picture
Shona McGovern
16 May 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I attended The Harley Street Walk/in centre in the City recently. I was able to book my appointment the day before for a blood test at a time that suited me. The booking process was straightforward. The doctor that conducted the venous draw was efficient and very pleasant. I have never had such a painless venous draw and I have had many! My appointment was at 5pm and I had my results before 8 am the following day. I will be very happy to book my tests here in the future. Thank you.
Posted on Google Google
Monju Zaman profile picture
Monju Zaman
19 April 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Very easy to arrange the appointment with plenty of immediate availability. Very convenient location. Friendly medical associate who took my blood and results arrived very promptly, ie early the next day. Seamless experience.
Posted on Google Google
Nat N profile picture
Nat N
17 April 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Attentive, welcoming and professional staff in a great area which is easy to get to! I always feel like I'm in good hands
Posted on Google Google
Abdalla Mohamud Mohamed profile picture
Abdalla Mohamud Mohamed
18 March 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had a very good experience at the clinic. The staff were punctual friendly and professional. I had a blood test done and received the results quickly on the same day. I would definitely recommend visiting them.
Posted on Google Google
Ena Quinn profile picture
Ena Quinn
9 March 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Speedy and efficient place for quick bloods. Results have been same day for me. Very friendly staff too which is always a bonus
Posted on Google Google
Arthur Attwell profile picture
Arthur Attwell
22 January 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great experience. I was visiting London from abroad and I needed a blood test before travelling onward. I arrived without an appointment and was done in 20 minutes. The staff were all lovely. I received my test results by email the next morning.
Posted on Google Google
Omar profile picture
Omar
19 January 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Really professional and friendly. They always provide their results quickly!
Posted on Google Google
Antigoni S. profile picture
Antigoni S.
17 January 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Very good experience — all the staff were very polite, I was assisted immediately, and the results were available the same day. Thank you very much Private City Clinic!
Posted on Google Google
Sheila Daley profile picture
Sheila Daley
31 December 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I wanted a cholesterol check up and chose this clinic because it seemed to offer a competitive price for a detailed report. And so it turned out to be. Received a prompt and professional service at a price that was significantly less than other nearby providers in central London. I have now used it twice and would definitely recommend.
Posted on Google Google
Gizem K profile picture
Gizem K
24 December 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had an excellent experience overall. Dr Craig is very attentive, listens carefully, and shows genuine care throughout the appointment. The booking team is also very responsive and helped me secure a next-day appointment. Highly recommend.
Posted on Yell Yell
JenniferP-344 profile picture
JenniferP-344
18 February 2025
Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Yell.
I appreciated the discreet and professional care during my sexual health test. The clinic made me feel safe and respected, and the results were delivered quickly and privately. Definitely recommend if you value confidentiality.
Posted on Yell Yell
MichelleD-11 profile picture
MichelleD-11
21 February 2024
Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Yell.
I can't express enough how pleased I am with the Private Walk-in Clinic. As someone who values privacy and comfort, this clinic hits all the marks. The waiting areas are designed for relaxation, and the staff ensures confidentiality at every step.
Posted on Provenexpert Provenexpert
Anonymously profile picture
Anonymously
4 December 2023
Provenexpert star 1Provenexpert star 2Provenexpert star 3Provenexpert star 4Provenexpert star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Provenexpert.
The Walk-In Clinic in central London exceeded my expectations in every way. Their attention to detail and commitment to tailored care for their patients truly sets them apart. The availability of evening appointments until 6:30 pm was a game-changer for someone like me juggling multiple commitments.
Posted on Yell Yell
LunaW23 profile picture
LunaW23
14 May 2021
Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Yell.
They are so fast. One call and I am there in a few hours, always the same team and so polite and nice.
Posted on Yell Yell
JuliaSf profile picture
JuliaSf
14 October 2020
Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Yell.
I hope these guys open up again soon because I really cannot stand anyone else around here. they were perfect for me for tests and consultations whenever I needed them
Posted on Yell Yell
Emily-M profile picture
Emily-M
2 August 2019
Yell star 1Yell star 2Yell star 3Yell star 4Yell star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Yell.
i have used these guys many times in the last 6 years and its always very fast and professional. most tests are done in 24hours and they call you to explain the results. recommended if you gp (like mine) gives you an appointment in 4 weeks time.

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ACTH test

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fAQ

What does it mean when your ACTH is high?
A higher-than-normal level of ACTH may indicate several conditions, including Addison’s disease. It might also suggest congenital adrenal hyperplasia (when your adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones). Additionally, high ACTH levels could indicate that one or more endocrine glands are overactive or have developed a tumor, such as in multiple endocrine neoplasia type I.
What are the symptoms of low ACTH levels?
Symptoms typically include weight loss, muscle weakness, low blood pressure, a lack of appetite, nausea and vomiting, and mood changes, and increased susceptibility to infections. It could also be a result of Cushing’s syndrome.
What are two main causes of low cortisol?
Two main causes of low cortisol levels could be Adrenal Insufficiency (Addison’s Disease) and Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency (pituitary dysfunction).
Can stress cause high ACTH levels?
Great question, as cortisol is also known as the stress hormone. Both patients and people without the condition experienced a big increase cortisol and ACTH, as well as higher blood pressure and heart rate, when they faced a stressful situation. Can stress cause high ACTH levels? Yes.

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