Adrenocorticotrophic hormone, abbreviated as ACTH, is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that stimulates the release of cortisol from the adrenal cortex. There are several different synonyms for ACTH, including corticotrophin, adrenocorticotropic hormone, and adrenocorticotropin. Other related terms include hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and stress hormone. ACTH is involved in regulating the body's response to stress, and its levels can be elevated in conditions such as Addison's disease or Cushing's syndrome. Understanding the different synonyms for ACTH, as well as its functions and role in the body, can be helpful in diagnosing and treating various endocrine disorders.