THE ADRENOCORTICAL RESPONSE TO INSULIN-INDUCED HYPOGLYCAEMIA

Abstract

SUMMARY: The adrenocortical response to stress as shown by an increase of the plasma cortisol concentration during insulin-induced hypoglycaemia has been studied. The response was found to depend upon the degree and duration of the hypoglycaemia and upon the integrity of the entire hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis. Thus, there was no response in subjects in whom the blood sugar did not fall below 40 mg./100 ml., nor in patients with severe hypothalamic or pituitary disorders. The test was quick and simple to perform and did not require admission to hospital; it would seem to be of considerable value in the investigation of patients with suspected endocrine disease.