Chapter: Medicine Study Notes : Endocrine and Electrolytes
Adrenal Cortex
Adrenal Cortex
· Produces:
o Glucocorticoids: eg Cortisol - affects CHO, protein and lipid metabolism
o Mineralocorticoids eg aldosterone
o Androgens and oestrogens
· Cortisol:
o Corticotrophin releasing factor (CRF from the hypothalamus) ® ACTH
(from pituitary) ® Cortisol
o Postulated that Cortisol inhibits a general or uncontrolled inflammatory
response to tissue damage following insult. Raised in trauma, infection, severe
psychiatric disease
o ACTH production is inhibited potently by Betamethasone and
Dexamethasone, Prednisone has intermediate potency and hydrocortisone (ie
cortisol) has the lowest potency of these agents
o Cortisol is excreted as urinary free cortisol
o Morning level (2am – 8 am) is twice evening. Severe stress can override diurnal pattern
Summary of best tests:
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