THE DISAPPEARANCE RATE OF PLASMA CORTICOIDS IN PATIENTS WITH SUPPRESSED ADRENOCORTICAL PRODUCTION

Abstract

Using a new fluorimetric assay method, values of cortisol (11[beta], 17, 21-trihydroxy-pregn-4-ene-3, 20-dione) removal rates and apparent distribution volume (A.D.V.) similar to those previously described in the literature were found after administration of pharmacological doses of cortisol. The above mentioned parameters are only slightly influenced by the oestrogens normally produced in premenopausal women or by old age. In cases of obesity there is an increased plasma removal of cortisol but the A.D.V. remains normal; this may represent an effect opposite to the starvation effect described recently. After adrenal production is blocked, the removal of the endogenous corticosteroids is slower than after administration of pharmacological doses of cortisol. This is apparently due to a better protection at low plasma cortisol levels by the transcortine mechanism.