[Adrenal insufficiencies caused by isolated corticotropic deficiency. 2 cases]

Abstract

Isolated adrenocorticotropin deficiencies are rare. Two cases are reported, one, with hypoglycaemia, the other with weakness and hypotension, with a review of the published cases during the past twenty years. The adrenal defect impairs severely the glucocorticoid secretion while aldosteron is normal. Tetracosactid stimulates adrenal secretion. ACTH activity measurable in serum is very low and not affected by metyrapone. Other pituitary secretions are normal. The hypothalamic or pituitary level of the defect will be situated when CRH test available.