PITUITARY ADRENOCORTICOTROPIC HORMONE (ACTH) AND CORTISONE IN DISEASES OF THE SKIN

Abstract

THE STRIKING effects of cortisone (compound E) and corticotropin (ACTH) in the control of diseases affecting mesenchymal and other tissues and on the hypersensitivity reaction have been described.¹ These reports have outlined the results of therapy with these hormones, as well as the complications most frequently encountered. They also have emphasized the rebound phenomenon following therapy and the physiologic effects of these potent corticosteroids. As the mechanism of action of these hormones is not well understood, it is virtually impossible to predict what diseases they may affect favorably. In order to obtain a spectrum of their usefulness, it is necessary to treat a number of patients with the severe dermatoses that are refractory to current forms of therapy. The following case reports are presented in the hope of adding some pertinent information to the data now being assembled by other investigators. CASE SELECTION AND ROUTINE STUDIES The