Hypoadrenalism: Steroidal Mediation of Sodium Action on Blood Pressure; Modification of Antiarthritic Response to Cortisone.

Abstract

Studies were undertaken in a patient with hypertensive vascular disease, Addison''s disease, diabetes mellitus and rheumatoid arthritis. The arthritis responded to doses of cortisone smaller than those generally effective. Whereas large doses of NaCl failed to modify the blood pressure, the arterial tension rose and fell in conjunction with salt intake providing the patient was maintained on constant amts. of desoxycorticosterone acetate. It is suggested that the action of NaCl on blood pressure is mediated through an adrenal mechanism.