Studies on the Relation of Pituitary-Adrenal Function to Rheumatic Disease

Abstract

DURING the past few years it has become increasingly evident that the adrenal cortical hormones exert a marked influence on a wide variety of metabolic processes in man. The over-all effects exerted by these hormones may be divided into three general groups: an electrolyte-regulating effect; the regulation of the rate of utilization of carbohydrate, protein and fat; and an androgenic and anabolic effect.Nature of Adrenal Cortical Activity Electrolyte-Regulating Effect of Adrenal Cortical Steroids This is characterized by urinary retention of sodium and chloride, increased excretion of potassium, increased plasma and extracellular fluid volume.¹ It has also been shown that . . .