Studies on the Relation of Pituitary-Adrenal Function to Rheumatic Disease

Abstract

DURING the past few years it has become increasingly evident that the adrenal cortical hormones exert a marked influence on a wide variety of metabolic processes in man. The over-all effects exerted by these hormones may be divided into three general groups: an electrolyte-regulating effect; the regulation of the rate of utilization of carbohydrate, protein and fat; and an androgenic and anabolic effect.Nature of Adrenal Cortical Activity Electrolyte-Regulating Effect of Adrenal Cortical Steroids This is characterized by urinary retention of sodium and chloride, increased excretion of potassium, increased plasma and extracellular fluid volume.1 It has also been shown that . . .