THE BIOLOGY OF METACORTICOID HYPERTENSION

Abstract

A review of the physiology, pathogenesis, endocrinology, and pharmacotherapy of metacorticoid hypertension, a self-sustaining disease in rats that is produced by temporary over-dosage with desoxycorticosterone and dietary sodium. It is characterized by elevated blood pressure and cardiovascular reactivity, vascular lesions, disturbances in salt and water metabolism, and decreased life expectancy. These factors appear, to a certain extent, to be independent of each other. The maintenance of the disease is dependent upon the pituitary, thyroid, and kidneys. Clinically active drugs are effective in causing transitory decreases of blood pressure in metacorticoid rats, although seemingly huge doses are often required.