SOME PITFALLS IN THE TREATMENT OF ADDISON’S DISEASE

Abstract

Most of the dangers of treatment with desoxycorticosterone directly or indirectly are concerned with alterations in the circulatory apparatus. The already damaged heart is further over-burdened when excessive quantities of the hormone and Na, and diminished quantities of K. are administered. Complications of over-treatment can be avoided by attention to the following points: cessation of electrolyte therapy when the blood Na value and Na excretion approach normal; replacement of K in usual amts. in the diet as soon as the previously altered electrocardiogram approaches a normal configuration; the addition of vit. B1 to the therapeutic regime from the beginning; the use of cardiac mensuration as an early index of sufficient treatment; avoidance of excessive doses of hormone; the application of implantation therapy only after the patient has been fully stabilized on a general mixed diet and hormone by inj.; avoidance, as far as possible, of unusual stresses in life.