The Effects Of X-Irradiation on Adrenal Function in Man

On Radiation Damage to Normal Tissues and its Treatment: II. Anti-inflammatory drugs

“…Plasma hydrocortisone level was the same at the completion of fractionated radiotherapy sparing the adrenals as before the treatment. However, 2 h after abdominal irradiation (1.5 Gy) it was reduced by -54"/;, with subsequent rise towards the initial value (278). An increase in ACTH-stimulated urinary excretion of 17-hydroxycorticosteroids observed during the latter part of, and immediately after, fractionated abdominal irradiation which included the exposure of both adrenal glands was followed by a decrease to subnormal readings (a reduction of functional reserve; 279).…”