SEASONAL VARIATIONS IN SURVIVAL AFTER ADRENALECTOMY

Abstract

Of 22 marmots (Arctomys monax) adrenalectomized at different seasons, those operated on between April and November (the normal active period) survived for 2-10 days only. Those operated on during the winter months, when normally inactive or dormant, showed no immediate ill effects and might survive in good health for several months, only to succumb to severe adrenal insufficiency at the usual time of awakening in April. The blood sugar, body temperature and heart rate of the marmot were considerably lower during the normal period of dormancy than in summer. There is also a much diminished energy output during hibernation. The intimate relationship of the adrenal glands to metabolism is briefly discussed.