ENHANCEMENT BY TRI-IODOTHYRONINE OF RESPONSE TO CORTICOTROPHIN IN ANTERIOR HYPOPITUITARISM

Abstract

SUMMARY: Changes in response of the adrenal cortex to corticotrophin caused by the simultaneous intravenous administration of tri-iodothyronine have been studied in two patients with anterior pituitary insufficiency. Tri-iodothyronine caused increases in urinary excretion of ketogenic steroids and in plasma hydrocortisone. Blood eosinophils fell sharply. In addition, changes in sodium and potassium balance, and fasting blood sugar levels were observed which were consistent with increased activity of the adrenal cortex. Rapid changes in b.m.r., serum creatine and blood cholesterol were those known to be produced by tri-iodothyronine alone; so, to a large extent, was the increased negative nitrogen balance.