Effect of Gluco- and Mineralocorticoid Adrenal Steroids on Fluid and Electrolytes of Fasted Adrenalectomized Dogs. ∗

Abstract

Summary

1) 1-dehydrohydrocortisone induced rapid revival of fasted adrenalectomized dogs from severe insufficiency. Disappearance of symptoms and return of activity and vigor was accompanied by restoration of normal values of arterial pressure and serum electrolytes. Hemodilution was evident and a profuse diuresis occurred with marked renal loss of Na, Cl, K and fluid. Desoxycorticosterone, in doses of 500 mg day was much less effective in restoring activity but sharply increased serum Na and Cl, an increase which in part seemed due to excretion of relatively “salt free” water. There was renal retention of Na and Cl, persistent hemoconcentration and failure of the blood pressure to rise above the low level characteristic of adrenal insufficiency. 2) The fluid and electrolyte changes of the glucocorticoid-treated dogs are presumed to be due to an outflux of Na. Cl. K and water from cells including probably bone and collagenous tissue. Although an apparent correlation exists between the ability of 1-dehydrohydrocortisone to shift fluid and electrolytes and to restore arterial pressure, some of the data suggest that a possible direct effect of this type of steroid on the peripheral vasculature may be of primary importance in revival from insufficiency.