THE RELATION OF ADRENOCORTICAL FUNCTION TO SCURVY IN GUINEA-PIGS. THE EFFECT OF EXOGENOUS ACTH AND ADRENALECTOMY

Abstract

1. When adrenal ascorbic acid is minimal in scurvy, the gland is still capable of responding to exogenous ACTH as shown by an increase in urinary 17-ketosteroid excretion. 2. Adrenalectomized guinea-pigs deprived of ascorbic acid lose weight rapidly and die in a few days with early manifestations of acute scurvy but without any increase in urinary 17-ketosteroids. 3. Adrenalectomized guinea-pigs do not show an increase of 17-ketosteroids in response to ACTH.