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Durcan E, Hacioglu A, Karaca Z, Unluhizarci K, Gonen MS, Kelestimur F. Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis Function and Adrenal Insufficiency in COVID-19 Patients. Neuroimmunomodulation 2023; 30:215-225. [PMID: 37703857 PMCID: PMC10614450 DOI: 10.1159/000534025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The outbreak of COVID-19 has affected more than half a billion people worldwide and caused more than 6 million deaths since 2019. The responsible virus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), primarily affects the lungs, but it has multisystemic effects. It is well known that dysfunction of multiple endocrine organs may occur during or after COVID-19. Impairment of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is of utmost importance as it may lead to death if went undiagnosed. SARS-CoV-2 may cause both primary and secondary adrenal insufficiencies (AIs). The clinical manifestations of AI are generally non-specific and might be attributed to the complications caused by the infection itself. The underlying pathogenetic mechanisms were explained by the immunogenic, vascular effects of the infection or the direct effects of the virus. The diagnosis of AI in critically ill patients with COVID-19 is not straightforward. There is lack of consensus on the cut-off values of basal serum cortisol levels and stimulation tests during the disease. Here we review the literature with a special regard on the evaluation of the HPA axis in patients with COVID-19. We conclude that the possibility of AI should always be kept in mind when dealing with patients with COVID-19, and repeated basal cortisol measurements and the ACTH stimulation test results could guide the clinician during the diagnostic process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Durcan
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Cerrahpasa Medical School, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Aysa Hacioglu
- Department of Endocrinology, Medical School, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Zuleyha Karaca
- Department of Endocrinology, Medical School, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Kursad Unluhizarci
- Department of Endocrinology, Medical School, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Sait Gonen
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Cerrahpasa Medical School, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fahrettin Kelestimur
- Department of Endocrinology, Medical School, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Alkemade A, Großmann R, Bazin PL, Forstmann BU. Mixed methodology in human brain research: integrating MRI and histology. Brain Struct Funct 2023; 228:1399-1410. [PMID: 37365411 PMCID: PMC10335951 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-023-02675-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Postmortem magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide a bridge between histological observations and the in vivo anatomy of the human brain. Approaches aimed at the co-registration of data derived from the two techniques are gaining interest. Optimal integration of the two research fields requires detailed knowledge of the tissue property requirements for individual research techniques, as well as a detailed understanding of the consequences of tissue fixation steps on the imaging quality outcomes for both MRI and histology. Here, we provide an overview of existing studies that bridge between state-of-the-art imaging modalities, and discuss the background knowledge incorporated into the design, execution and interpretation of postmortem studies. A subset of the discussed challenges transfer to animal studies as well. This insight can contribute to furthering our understanding of the normal and diseased human brain, and to facilitate discussions between researchers from the individual disciplines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneke Alkemade
- Integrative Model-Based Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Rosa Großmann
- Integrative Model-Based Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pierre-Louis Bazin
- Integrative Model-Based Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurophysics, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Birte U Forstmann
- Integrative Model-Based Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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The Effect of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells on the Mortality of Patients with Sepsis and Septic Shock: A Promising Therapy. Emerg Med Int 2022; 2022:9222379. [PMID: 35784641 PMCID: PMC9249540 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9222379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Sepsis and septic shock are the major causes of death in intensive care units. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical safety and efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in sepsis and septic shock patients. Methods Ten patients were enrolled in the study. Adipose-derived MSC infusions were given (1 × 106/kg, on the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, and 9th days of therapy) together with standard therapy. Before the MSC applications, blood samples were collected for cytokine assessment (TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10). The clinical and laboratory improvements were recorded and compared with control groups selected retrospectively. The clinical trial was registered on 16.03.2022 with the registration number NCT05283317. Results In the study group, the ages of patients ranged from 22 to 68 years, and APACHE II scores ranged from 14 to 42. In the control group, ages ranged from 22 to 80 years and their APACHE II scores were between 14–35. The survival rate in the study group was 100% on the 14th day whereas it was 70% on the 28th day. A significant decrease in the SOFA score (adjusted), clinical, and laboratory improvements were observed during the MSC administration. However, no significant cytokine level changes were observed. In the control group, the survival rate of 20 patients was 70% on the 14th day, whereas 60% was on the 28th day. While deaths were observed in the control group in the first week of treatment, deaths in the MSCs group were observed between the 15th and 28th days. Conclusion MSCs treatment may have a positive impact on the survival rates of sepsis during the early phase. However, further randomized controlled studies with a large group of patients are needed. Trial Registration. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05283317.
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Alp E, Gonen ZB, Gundogan K, Esmaoglu A, Kaynar L, Cetin A, Karakukcu M, Cetin M, Kalin G, Doganay M. The Effect of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells on the Mortality of Patients with Sepsis and Septic Shock: A Promising Therapy. Emerg Med Int 2022. [DOI: doi10.1155/2022/9222379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose. Sepsis and septic shock are the major causes of death in intensive care units. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical safety and efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in sepsis and septic shock patients. Methods. Ten patients were enrolled in the study. Adipose-derived MSC infusions were given (1 × 106/kg, on the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, and 9th days of therapy) together with standard therapy. Before the MSC applications, blood samples were collected for cytokine assessment (TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10). The clinical and laboratory improvements were recorded and compared with control groups selected retrospectively. The clinical trial was registered on 16.03.2022 with the registration number NCT05283317. Results. In the study group, the ages of patients ranged from 22 to 68 years, and APACHE II scores ranged from 14 to 42. In the control group, ages ranged from 22 to 80 years and their APACHE II scores were between 14–35. The survival rate in the study group was 100% on the 14th day whereas it was 70% on the 28th day. A significant decrease in the SOFA score (adjusted), clinical, and laboratory improvements were observed during the MSC administration. However, no significant cytokine level changes were observed. In the control group, the survival rate of 20 patients was 70% on the 14th day, whereas 60% was on the 28th day. While deaths were observed in the control group in the first week of treatment, deaths in the MSCs group were observed between the 15th and 28th days. Conclusion. MSCs treatment may have a positive impact on the survival rates of sepsis during the early phase. However, further randomized controlled studies with a large group of patients are needed. Trial Registration. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05283317.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emine Alp
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Medical Faculty, Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Burcin Gonen
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Kursat Gundogan
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Aliye Esmaoglu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Leylagul Kaynar
- Bone Marrow Transplant and Stem Cell Unit, Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Aysun Cetin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Musa Karakukcu
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Cetin
- Bone Marrow Transplant and Stem Cell Unit, Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Gamze Kalin
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Doganay
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Lokman Hekim University, Ankara, Turkey
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Gonen MS, De Bellis A, Durcan E, Bellastella G, Cirillo P, Scappaticcio L, Longo M, Bircan BE, Sahin S, Sulu C, Ozkaya HM, Konukoglu D, Kartufan FF, Kelestimur F. Assessment of Neuroendocrine Changes and Hypothalamo-Pituitary Autoimmunity in Patients with COVID-19. Horm Metab Res 2022; 54:153-161. [PMID: 35276740 DOI: 10.1055/a-1764-1260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 may affect the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and pituitary dysfunction may occur. Therefore, we investigated neuroendocrine changes, in particular, secondary adrenal insufficiency, using a dynamic test and the role of autoimmunity in pituitary dysfunction in patients with COVID-19. The single-center, prospective, case-control study included patients with polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-confirmed COVID-19 and healthy controls. Basal hormone levels were measured, and the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test was performed. Antipituitary (APA) and antihypothalamic antibodies (AHA) were also determined. We examined a total of 49 patients with COVID-19 and 28 healthy controls. The frequency of adrenal insufficiency in patients with COVID-19 was found as 8.2%. Patients with COVID-19 had lower free T3, IGF-1, and total testosterone levels, and higher cortisol and prolactin levels when compared with controls. We also demonstrated the presence of APA in three and AHA in one of four patients with adrenal insufficiency. In conclusion, COVID-19 may result in adrenal insufficiency, thus routine screening of adrenal functions in these patients is needed. Endocrine disturbances in COVID-19 are similar to those seen in acute stressful conditions or infections. Pituitary or hypothalamic autoimmunity may play a role in neuroendocrine abnormalities in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Sait Gonen
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Annamaria De Bellis
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Emre Durcan
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Giuseppe Bellastella
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Cirillo
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Scappaticcio
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Miriam Longo
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Basak Ecem Bircan
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Serdar Sahin
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Cem Sulu
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hande Mefkure Ozkaya
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Dildar Konukoglu
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fatma Ferda Kartufan
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Reanimation, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Yuki M, Aoyama R, Hirano T, Tawada R, Ogawa M, Naitoh E, Kainuma D, Nagata N. Investigation of serum cortisol concentration as a potential prognostic marker in hospitalized dogs: a prospective observational study in a primary care animal hospital. BMC Vet Res 2019; 15:170. [PMID: 31126272 PMCID: PMC6534851 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-019-1919-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dogs with various medical diseases are usually treated at hospitals; however, the prognostic markers in dogs remain unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of serum cortisol concentration (SCC) to predict the prognosis of dogs with medical diseases. At 0 and 24 h after hospitalization, the neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, blood glucose concentration, and SCC were measured. Survival for 30 days from the time of hospitalization was investigated, and the dogs were divided into a survivor group and a non-survivor group. RESULTS The neutrophil count at 24 h, SCC at 24 h, increase in SCC from 0 to 24 h (Inc-SCC), and the rate of increase in SCC from 0 to 24 h (R-Inc-SCC) were significantly higher in the non-survivor group than in the survivor group. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve values for the neutrophil count at 24 h, SCC at 24 h, Inc-SCC, and R-Inc-SCC were 0.695, 0.72, 0.63, and 0.66, respectively. Using the highest area under the ROC curve value, the sensitivity and specificity of SCC at a cutoff level of 6.6 μg/dL for predicting mortality were 89.5 and 61.9%, respectively. Moreover, the Kaplan-Meier curves confirmed the significant prognostic influence of SCC at 24 h. CONCLUSIONS SCC as a marker of stress is a useful biomarker for predicting the prognosis of dogs with medical diseases requiring hospital treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masashi Yuki
- Yuki Animal Hospital, 2-99 Kiba-cho, Minato-ku, Aichi, Japan.
| | - Reina Aoyama
- Yuki Animal Hospital, 2-99 Kiba-cho, Minato-ku, Aichi, Japan
| | - Takashi Hirano
- Yuki Animal Hospital, 2-99 Kiba-cho, Minato-ku, Aichi, Japan
| | - Reina Tawada
- Yuki Animal Hospital, 2-99 Kiba-cho, Minato-ku, Aichi, Japan
| | - Mizuho Ogawa
- Yuki Animal Hospital, 2-99 Kiba-cho, Minato-ku, Aichi, Japan
| | - Eiji Naitoh
- Yuki Animal Hospital, 2-99 Kiba-cho, Minato-ku, Aichi, Japan
| | - Daiki Kainuma
- Yuki Animal Hospital, 2-99 Kiba-cho, Minato-ku, Aichi, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Nagata
- Yuki Animal Hospital, 2-99 Kiba-cho, Minato-ku, Aichi, Japan
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Elbuken G, Karaca Z, Tanriverdi F, Unluhizarci K, Sungur M, Doganay M, Kelestimur F. Comparison of total, salivary and calculated free cortisol levels in patients with severe sepsis. J Intensive Care 2016; 4:3. [PMID: 26753096 PMCID: PMC4706674 DOI: 10.1186/s40560-015-0125-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The purposes of the study were to compare serum total cortisol (STC), salivary cortisol (SaC) and calculated free cortisol (cFC) levels at baseline and after the adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test in patients with severe sepsis (SS) and determine the suitability of use of SaC and cFC levels instead of STC for the diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency (AI) in patients with SS. And secondary aims of this study were to compare these parameters in patients with SS with healthy controls and check their effects on survival status of the patients. Methods Thirty patients with SS (15 men and 15 women) were compared with 16 healthy controls. Low-dose (1 μg) ACTH stimulation test was performed to the patients on the first, seventh and 28th days of diagnosis of SS, but in control group, 1 μg ACTH stimulation test was performed only once. STC, SaC and cFC levels were measured during ACTH stimulation test. Results Patients were categorized as having low or high baseline STC according to a cut-off level of 10 μg/dL. In high STC group, baseline and peak SaC levels were found to be 2.3 (0.2–9.0) and 3.4 (0.5–17.8) μg/dL on D1 and 1.1 (0.8–4.6) and 2.6 (1.3–2.9) μg/dL on D7, respectively. In the control group, baseline and peak SaC levels were 0.4 (0.1–1.4) and 1.1 (0.4–2.5) μg/dL, respectively. Baseline and peak SaC levels after ACTH stimulation were found to be higher in high STC group than in controls, but they were found to be similar in low STC and control groups. In high STC group, cFC levels were 0.3 (0.1–0.3) and 0.4 (0.3–0.7) μg/dL on D1 and 0.2 (0.1–0.3) and 0.4 (0.1–0.7) μg/dL on D7, respectively. In the control group, baseline and peak cFC levels were 1.7 (0.4–1.9) and 1.8 (1.0–6.6) μg/dL, respectively. cFC levels were found to be lower in patients with SS subgroups than in the control group. Baseline and stimulated STC, SaC and cFC levels did not differ according to the survival status. SaC, cFC and STC levels were found to be correlated with each other. Conclusions SS is associated with increased SaC, but decreased cFC levels when baseline STC is assumed to be sufficient. When STC level is assumed to be insufficient, SaC levels remain unchanged, but cFC levels are decreased. Lower STC levels is not associated with increased mortality in patients with SS. More data are needed in order to suggest the use of SaC and cFC instead of STC. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov No: NCT02589431
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulsah Elbuken
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Erciyes University Medical School, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Zuleyha Karaca
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Erciyes University Medical School, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Fatih Tanriverdi
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Erciyes University Medical School, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Kursad Unluhizarci
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Erciyes University Medical School, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Murat Sungur
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erciyes University Medical School, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Doganay
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Erciyes University Medical School, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Fahrettin Kelestimur
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Erciyes University Medical School, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey
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Venkatesh B, Cohen J. The utility of the corticotropin test to diagnose adrenal insufficiency in critical illness: an update. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2015; 83:289-97. [PMID: 25521173 DOI: 10.1111/cen.12702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2014] [Revised: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE One of the most common dynamic testing procedures for assessment of adrenocortical function is the standard corticotropin or the cosyntropin test. The aim of this review was to examine the evidence base underlying the corticotropin test in the management of the critically ill patient. DATA SYNTHESIS The principle behind the corticotropin test is the demonstration of an inappropriately low cortisol production in response to exogenous ACTH, a situation analogous to physiological stress. The corticotropin test was originally described in nonstressed subjects, and its applicability and interpretation in the setting of critical illness continues to generate controversy. Attempting to determine the prevalence of an abnormal corticotropin test in critical illness is complicated by the use of different end-points and different populations. Moreover, the test result is also influenced by the assay used for measurement of plasma cortisol. Trials assessing the relationship between corticotropin response and severity of stress and organ dysfunction have produced divergent results, which may reflect differences in the methodology and the association being measured. Moreover, controversy exists with respect to the methodology and the interpretation with respect to the following variables: dose of corticotropin, end-points for assessment of total or free cortisol, effect of plasma cortisol variability, adrenal blood flow and its equivalence with other tests of adrenocortical function. CONCLUSIONS The corticotropin test is used widely in the evaluation of adrenocortical function in the endocrine clinics. Its role in the critically ill patient is less well established. Several confounding variables exist and to have a 'one-size-fits-all' approach with a single end-point in the face of several methodological and pathophysiological confounders may be flawed and may result in the institution of inappropriate therapy. The current evidence does not support the use of the corticotrophin test in critical illness to assess adrenocortical function and guiding steroid therapy in critical illness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeremy Cohen
- Royal Brisbane Hospital, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
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Elevated Plasma-Free Cortisol Concentrations and Ratios Are Associated With Increased Mortality Even in the Presence of Statin Therapy in Patients With Severe Sepsis*. Crit Care Med 2015; 43:630-5. [DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0000000000000750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Pandya U, Polite N, Wood T, Lieber M. Increased Total Serum Random Cortisol Levels Predict Mortality in Critically Ill Trauma Patients. Am Surg 2014. [DOI: 10.1177/000313481408001126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Dysfunction in the hypothalamopituitary adrenal axis is thought to exist; however, there continues to be controversy about what level of serum cortisol corresponds to adrenal insufficiency. Few studies have focused on the significance of serum random cortisol in the critically ill trauma patient. Trauma patients with total serum random cortisol levels drawn in the intensive care unit within the first seven days of hospitalization were retrospectively reviewed. The primary outcome measured was in-hospital mortality. Two hundred forty-two patients were analyzed. Non-survivors had significantly higher mean cortisol levels than survivors (28.7 ± 15.80 mg/dL vs 22.9 ± 12.35 mg/dL, P = 0.01). Patients with cortisol 30 mg/dL or greater were more likely to die with odds ratio of 2.7 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.5 to 5). The odds ratio increased to 4.0 and 3.8 (95% CI, 1.4 to 11.4 and 1.3 to 10.9) when cortisol was drawn on hospital Day 2 and Days 3 through 7, respectively. Among nonsurvivors, patients with an injury severity score less than 25 had significantly higher cortisol levels than patients with an Injury Severity Score 25 or higher (35.3 ± 19.21 mg/dL vs 25.7 ± 13.21 mg/dL, P = 0.009). Patients with massive transfusion, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, or solid organ injury did not have significantly different cortisol levels. The covariate-adjusted area under the receiver operating characteristic curve indicated that cortisol level has a 77 per cent accuracy in differentiating survivors from nonsurvivors. Higher cortisol levels were predictive of mortality in critically ill trauma patients. Whether serum cortisol level is a marker that can be modified remains an area of interest for future study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urmil Pandya
- From Trauma Services, Grant Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Nathan Polite
- From Trauma Services, Grant Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Teresa Wood
- From Trauma Services, Grant Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Michael Lieber
- From Trauma Services, Grant Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio
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11
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Matejec R, Kayser F, Schmal F, Uhle F, Bödeker RH, Maxeiner H, Kolbe JA. Effects of corticotropin-releasing hormone on proopiomelanocortin derivatives and monocytic HLA-DR expression in patients with septic shock. Peptides 2013; 47:133-41. [PMID: 23891702 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2013.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2013] [Revised: 07/09/2013] [Accepted: 07/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about interactions between immune and neuro-endocrine systems in patients with septic shock. We therefore evaluated whether the corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and/or proopiomelanocortin (POMC) derivatives [ACTH, β-endorphin (β-END), β-lipotropin (β-LPH), α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) or N-acetyl-β-END (Nac-β-END)] have any influences on monocyte deactivation as a major factor of immunosuppression under septic shock conditions. Sixteen patients with septic shock were enrolled in a double-blind, cross-over and placebo controlled clinical study; 0.5μg/(kgbodyweighth) CRH (or placebo) were intravenously administered for 24h. Using flow cytometry we investigated the immunosuppression in patients as far as related to the loss of leukocyte surface antigen-DR expression on circulating monocytes (mHLA-DR). ACTH, β-END immunoreacive material (IRM), β-LPH IRM, α-MSH and Nac-β-END IRM as well as TNF-α and mHLA-DR expression were determined before, during and after treatment with CRH (or placebo). A significant correlation between plasma concentration of α-MSH and mHLA-DR expression and an inverse correlation between mHLA-DR expression and TNF-α plasma level were found. Additionally, a significant increase of mHLA-DR expression was observed 16h after starting the CRH infusion; 8h later, the mHLA-DR expression had decreased again. Our results indicate that the up-regulation of mHLA-DR expression after CRH infusion is not dependent on the release of POMC derivatives. From the correlation between plasma concentration of α-MSH and mHLA-DR expression, we conclude that in patients with septic shock the down-regulation of mHAL-DR expression is accompanied by the loss of monocytic release of α-MSH into the cardiovascular compartment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reginald Matejec
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care Medicine and Pain Therapy, Justus-Liebig-University, Rudolf-Buchheim-Str. 7, D-35392 Giessen, Germany.
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Venkatesh B, Cohen J. Adrenocortical (dys)function in septic shock - a sick euadrenal state. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2011; 25:719-33. [PMID: 21925073 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2011.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
A central feature of the endocrine pathophysiology of septic shock is thought to be the existence of adrenal dysfunction. Based on changes in glucocorticoid secretion and responsiveness, protein binding, and activity. These changes have been described by the terms "Relative Adrenal Insufficiency" (RAI), or "Critical Illness Related Corticosteroid Insufficiency" (CIRCI), and form part of the rationale for trials of glucocorticoid treatment in septic shock. Diagnostic criteria for these conditions have been based on plasma cortisol profiles and have proven notoriously difficult to establish. The uncertainty in this area arises from the inability of current tests to clearly identify who is truly glucocorticoid "deficient" at a cellular level, and hence who requires supplemental glucocorticoid administration. Emerging data suggest that there may be abnormalities in the tissue activity of glucocorticoids in patients with severe sepsis and plasma profiles may not be reliable indicators of tissue glucocorticoid activity, We put forward an alternative point of view, that is the spectrum of adrenocortical dysfunction in sepsis - plasma and tissue, can be grouped under the umbrella of a "sick euadrenal syndrome" rather than an adrenocortical insufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bala Venkatesh
- Princess Alexandra and Wesley hospitals, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
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Elbuken G, Karaca Z, Tanriverdi F, Unluhizarci K, Kelestimur F. Assessment of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in critical illness. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2011; 6:35-48. [PMID: 30764034 DOI: 10.1586/eem.10.80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Cortisol is the main corticosteroid secreted from the human adrenal cortex, and it has a crucial role for survival in stressful conditions. An adequate increase in levels of cortisol helps patients to cope with the severity of the disease in the acute phase of critical illness. Either higher or lower than expected cortisol levels were found to be related to increased mortality. Prolonged activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis can result in hypercortisolemia or hypocortisolemia; both can be detrimental to recovery from critical illness. Primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency, relative adrenal insufficiency, tissue resistance to glucocorticoids, adrenocorticotrophic hormone deficiency and immune-mediated inhibition of the HPA axis can be the cause of the impairment of the secretion or action of cortisol in critically ill patients. Recently, some authors offered the term 'critical illness-related corticosteroid insufficiency' to better point out the relative adrenal insufficiency that is seen during critical illness. Patients with critical illness-related corticosteroid insufficiency not only have insufficient circulating cortisol but also have impaired cellular utilization of cortisol. In this article, how adrenal dysfunction presents in critical illness and how appropriate diagnosis and management can be achieved in the critical care setting will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulsah Elbuken
- a Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Erciyes University Medical School, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Zuleyha Karaca
- a Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Erciyes University Medical School, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Fatih Tanriverdi
- a Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Erciyes University Medical School, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Kursad Unluhizarci
- a Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Erciyes University Medical School, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Fahrettin Kelestimur
- a Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Erciyes University Medical School, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey
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Cohen J, Venkatesh B. Relative adrenal insufficiency in the intensive care population; background and critical appraisal of the evidence. Anaesth Intensive Care 2010; 38:425-36. [PMID: 20514949 DOI: 10.1177/0310057x1003800304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Dysfunction of the hypothalamo-pituitary adrenal axis has become a central feature in descriptions of the pathophysiology of sepsis. However; despite hundreds of published articles including literature reviews and consensus statements, controversy still exists regarding the fundamental nature of the disorder and its relevance to clinical management. Often referred to as 'relative adrenal insufficiency', a recent consensus conference has proposed the alternate term 'critical illness related corticosteroid insufficiency' and suggested diagnostic criteria of a delta serum cortisol of less than 9 microg/l after adrenocorticotrophic hormone administration or a random total cortisol of under 10 microg/l. This review attempts to establish a critical reappraisal of the evidence for the existence of relative adrenal insufficiency/critical illness related corticosteroid insufficiency in patients with sepsis and examines the background, controversies and possibilities for future research into the condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Cohen
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
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Gallo-Payet N, Roussy JF, Chagnon F, Roberge C, Lesur O. Hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis multiple and organ dysfunction syndrome in critical illness: A special focus on arginine-vasopressin and apelin. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.1080/17471060802339711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Cetinkaya RA, Görenek L, Coşkun O, Eyigün CP, Senses Z, Ide T, Kiliç S. The effect of methylprednisolone on treatment in rats with induced sepsis. Clin Exp Med 2008; 9:45-50. [PMID: 18972065 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-008-0016-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2008] [Accepted: 09/16/2008] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
In this study, an appropriate sepsis model was created in rats. Additionally, the effects of steroid treatments on survival, in connection with antibiotic treatment, were investigated. The sepsis model performed via intraperitoneal injection of 3 ml/kg fecal suspension was determined as the most appropriate model for our study. Fifteen rats were used to investigate the effect of piperacillin-tazobactam on sepsis treatment. Forty-five randomly selected rats were used to investigate the efficacy of the antibiotic-plus-steroid combination. The rats were divided into three groups of 15 rats each. Twelve hours after the administration of fecal suspension, methylprednisolone (MP) at the dose of 0.25, 0.5, and 2 mg/kg/day was given to each group, respectively, in addition to an antibiotic administered intravenously. In order to investigate the effect of steroids alone in the treatment of sepsis, 0.5 mg/kg/day MP was given intravenously to 15 rats, 12 h after the fecal suspension was administered. It was concluded that administration of MP alone shortens survival time in rats with sepsis, whereas antibiotic therapy alone increases survival time significantly in rats with sepsis. It was seen that the antibiotic-plus-steroid treatment increases survival significantly compared to rats with no treatment (p < 0.05). In addition, steroids, when added to an antibiotic treatment in sepsis, affect survival positively when compared to the group with antibiotic therapy alone, depending on the dose given. Although, not statistically significant, high doses decrease survival (p > 0.05), and very low doses increase survival and mean survival time (p > 0.05) on the basis of clinical observation and average life time. However, low doses were found to increase survival significantly (p < 0.05). We concluded that low-dose MP, in addition to the appropriate antibiotic therapy, is the optimal in the treatment of rats with intraabdominal sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riza Aytaç Cetinkaya
- Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology Clinic, Derince Military Hospital, Kocaeli, Turkey
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Carlson DE, Chiu WC. The absence of circadian cues during recovery from sepsis modifies pituitary-adrenocortical function and impairs survival. Shock 2008; 29:127-32. [PMID: 17693947 DOI: 10.1097/shk.0b013e318142c5a2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Lighting and other environmental cues in the intensive care unit rarely adhere to a consistent daily pattern. To determine the influence of the daily light/dark (LD) cycle on recovery from sepsis, male Sprague Dawley rats were acclimated to lights-on condition at 6 AM and lights-off condition at 6 PM for 6 to 14 days. Catheter placement and cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) were performed under ketamine and xylazine. Rats were returned to the established LD cycle, to constant light (LL), or to constant dark (DD) at 6 PM. One-week survival was 83.33% during LD (n = 24), 62.5% during LL (n = 16), and 31.25% during DD (n = 16; P < 0.01 for difference from the LD group). Both plasma adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) and corticosterone levels in the morning of the first day after CLP were greater during DD than during LD (P < 0.05 in each case). The early elevation in ACTH was independent of survival. However, the greater frequency of nonsurviving DD rats accounted for the elevation of corticosterone in the DD group. Overall, most nonsurvivors had a unique response pattern composed of an early elevation of corticosterone in relation to plasma ACTH that then declined to a value above the normal circadian peak despite a late increase in endogenous ACTH when death was imminent. We conclude that the circadian cues provided by the LD cycle improve survival after CLP. Removal of these cues by DD increases the early appearance and incidence of a hormonal response pattern that is associated with a lethal outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drew E Carlson
- Program in Trauma and Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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Abstract
Systemic illnesses are associated with alterations in the hypothalamic-pituitary-peripheral hormone axes, which represent part of the adaptive response to stressful events and may be influenced by type and severity of illness and/or pharmacological therapy. The pituitary gland responds to an acute stressful event with two secretory patterns: adrenocorticotropin (ACTH), prolactin (PRL) and growth hormone (GH) levels increase, while luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and thyrotropin (TSH) levels may either decrease or remain unchanged, associated with a decreased activity of their target organ. In protracted critical illness, there is a uniformly reduced pulsatile secretion of ACTH, TSH, LH, PRL and GH, causing a reduction in serum levels of the respective target-hormones. These adaptations are initially protective; however, if inadequate or excessive they may be dangerous and may contribute to the high morbidity and mortality risk of these patients. There is no consensus regarding the type of approach, as well as the criteria to use to define pituitary axis function in critically ill patients. We here provide a critical approach to pituitary axis evaluation during systemic illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Bondanelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Advanced Therapies, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Venkataraman S, Munoz R, Candido C, Witchel SF. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in critical illness. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2007; 8:365-73. [PMID: 17972181 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-007-9058-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function is crucial to maintain and restore homeostasis. The HPA axis does not function in isolation. Rather, the HPA axis modulates and reacts to signals from endocrine, neural, and immune systems. Cortisol is the major glucocorticoid secreted by the human adrenal cortex. Its actions are largely mediated by the glucocorticoid receptor. The potent anti-inflammatory actions of glucocorticoids led to their use in critically ill patients. Metaanalyses of these early studies (before 1985) concluded that large glucocorticoid doses had no effect and were potentially detrimental. More recently, the pendulum has swung in the opposite direction based on the concept that critically ill patients may have relative adrenal insufficiency and/or acquired glucocorticoid resistance. However, inconsistent diagnostic criteria, heterogeneity of subjects, variable nutritional status, and pre-existing conditions preclude formulating definitive conclusions regarding glucocorticoid use among critically patients. Diagnosing adrenal insufficiency in the critically ill patient remains challenging. To resolve the issue, our challenge is to develop physiologically relevant tools to assess glucocorticoid action and GR function at the cellular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shekhar Venkataraman
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Schoeman JP, Rees P, Herrtage ME. Endocrine predictors of mortality in canine babesiosis caused by Babesia canis rossi. Vet Parasitol 2007; 148:75-82. [PMID: 17614201 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2007.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2007] [Revised: 05/31/2007] [Accepted: 06/04/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This prospective, cross-sectional, observational study was designed to determine the association between the hormones of the pituitary-adrenal and pituitary-thyroid axes and outcome in dogs with naturally occurring Babesia canis rossi babesiosis. Ninety-five dogs with canine babesiosis were studied and blood samples were obtained from the jugular vein in each dog prior to treatment at admission to hospital. Serum cortisol, adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), thyroxine, free thyroxine and thyrotropin (TSH) concentrations were measured. Diagnosis was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction and reverse line blot and dogs infected with Babesia canis vogeli or Ehrlichia canis were excluded. Three outcomes were defined: hospitalization with subsequent death (n=7); hospitalization followed by recovery (n=56); and treatment as an outpatient (n=32). Serum cortisol and ACTH concentrations were significantly higher in the dogs that died, compared to hospitalized dogs that survived and compared to dogs treated as outpatients. Serum T4 and free T4 concentrations were significantly lower in the dogs that died, compared to the hospitalized dogs that survived and compared to dogs treated as outpatients. Serum TSH concentrations were not significantly different between any of the groups. Mortality was significantly associated with high cortisol and high ACTH concentrations and with low T4 and fT4 concentrations in dogs suffering from B. canis rossi babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan P Schoeman
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa.
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Venkatesh B, Cohen J, Hickman I, Nisbet J, Thomas P, Ward G, Hall J, Prins J. Evidence of altered cortisol metabolism in critically ill patients: a prospective study. Intensive Care Med 2007; 33:1746-53. [PMID: 17558491 DOI: 10.1007/s00134-007-0727-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2006] [Accepted: 05/08/2007] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Changes in cortisol metabolism due to altered activity of the enzyme 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11beta-HSD) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of hypertension, obesity and the metabolic syndrome. No published data exist on the activity of this enzyme in critical illness. OBJECTIVE To investigate cortisol metabolism in critically ill patients utilising plasma cortisol: cortisone ratio as an index of 11beta-HSD activity. SETTING Tertiary level intensive care unit. PATIENTS Three cohorts of critically ill patients: sepsis (n = 13); multitrauma (n = 20); and burns (n = 19). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Serial plasma cortisol: cortisone ratios. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Plasma total cortisol cortisone ratios were determined serially after admission to the intensive care unit. As compared with controls, the plasma cortisol:cortisone ratio was significantly elevated in the sepsis and trauma cohorts on day 1 (22 +/- 9, p = 0.01, and 23 +/- 19, p = 0.0003, respectively) and remained elevated over the study period. Such a relationship was not demonstrable in burns. The ratio was significantly correlated with APACHE II (r = 0.77, p = 0.0008) and Simplified Acute Physiology Score (r = 0.7, p = 0.003) only on day 7 and only in the burns cohort. There were no significant correlations observed between total plasma cortisol or cortisone and sickness severity in the sepsis and trauma cohorts. CONCLUSIONS In critically ill patients, there is evidence of altered cortisol metabolism due to an increase in 11beta-HSD activity as demonstrated by an elevation of plasma cortisol: cortisone ratios. Further studies with larger sample sizes specifically designed to examine altered tissue 11beta-HSD activity and its clinical significance and correlation with outcome are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bala Venkatesh
- Department of Intensive Care, Princess Alexandra and Wesley Hospitals, University of Queensland, 4102, Queensland, Australia.
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Aneja R, Carcillo JA. What is the rationale for hydrocortisone treatment in children with infection-related adrenal insufficiency and septic shock? Arch Dis Child 2007; 92:165-9. [PMID: 17003064 PMCID: PMC2083316 DOI: 10.1136/adc.2005.088450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/20/2006] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies show that children who die from fulminant meningococcaemia have very low cortisol:adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) ratios within the first 8 h of presentation to emergency facilities compared with survivors. This observation supports the possibility that adrenal insufficiency may contribute to rapid cardiovascular collapse in these children. In recent years, the use of hydrocortisone treatment has become increasingly popular in the care of adult and paediatric patients with septic shock. In this review, the classical adrenal insufficiency literature is presented and the existing rationale for using titrated hydrocortisone treatment (2-50 mg/kg/day) to reverse catecholamine-resistant shock in children who have absolute adrenal insufficiency (defined by peak cortisol level <18 microg/dl after ACTH challenge) or pituitary, hypothalamic or adrenal axis insufficiency is provided. In addition, the concept of relative adrenal insufficiency (basal cortisol >18 microg/dl but a peak response to ACTH <9 microg/dl) is reviewed. Although there is a good rationale supporting the use of 7 days of low-dose hydrocortisone treatment (about 5 mg/kg/day) in adults with this condition and catecholamine resistant septic shock, the paediatric literature suggests that it is prudent to conduct more studies before recommending this approach in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh Aneja
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Colak R, Ozkan Y, Cengiz SU, Saral Y, Kandi BC, Halifeoglu I. A comparison between the effects of low (1 microg) and standard dose (250 microg) ACTH stimulation tests on adrenal cortex functions with Behçet's disease. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2006; 20:721-5. [PMID: 16836503 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-3083.2006.01626.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Behçet's disease is a rare, chronic disorder. The cause of Behçet's disease is unknown. It is believed to be caused by an autoimmune reaction. As in other chronic autoimmune diseases, Behçet's disease may show a subclinical adrenal failure and some changes in cortisol levels. We aimed to evaluate adrenal gland function in Behçet's disease patients. MATERIAL AND METHOD This study included 18 Behçet's disease patients and 15 healthy controls. Patient and control groups were administered i.v. 1 microg low dose test (LDT) and 250 microg standard dose test (SDT) adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test after 12 h of night fasting with an interval of 3-days and cortisol responses in the 0th, 30th and 60th minutes were evaluated. RESULTS There was no statistically significant difference between basal cortisol values of Behçet's disease and control groups. Cortisol values in the 60th minute in LDT were significantly lower in Behçet's disease group than in the control group. In the peak cortisol responses to LDT, a significant decrease was found in Behçet's disease group. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that hypothalamo-pituitary adrenal axis is partially suppressed in Behçet's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Colak
- Firat University Facuty of Medicine, Department of Endocrinology, Elazig, Turkey
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Arafah BM. Hypothalamic pituitary adrenal function during critical illness: limitations of current assessment methods. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2006; 91:3725-45. [PMID: 16882746 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2006-0674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 258] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis represents one of several important responses to stressful events and critical illnesses. Despite a large volume of published data, several controversies continue to be debated, such as the definition of normal adrenal response, the concept of relative adrenal insufficiency, and the use of glucocorticoids in the setting of critical illness. OBJECTIVES The primary objective was to review some of the modulating factors and limitations of currently used methods of assessing HPA function during critical illness and provide alternative approaches in that setting. DESIGN This was a critical review of relevant data from the literature with inclusion of previously published as well as unpublished observations by the author. Data on HPA function during three different forms of critical illnesses were reviewed: experimental endotoxemia in healthy volunteers, the response to major surgical procedures in patients with normal HPA, and the spontaneous acute to subacute critical illnesses observed in patients treated in intensive care units. SETTING The study was conducted at an academic medical center. PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS Participants were critically ill subjects. INTERVENTION There was no intervention. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE The main measure was to provide data on the superiority of measuring serum free cortisol during critical illness as contrasted to those of total cortisol measurements. RESULTS Serum free cortisol measurement is the most reliable method to assess adrenal function in critically ill, hypoproteinemic patients. A random serum free cortisol is expected to be 1.8 microg/dl or more in most critically ill patients, irrespective of their serum binding proteins. Because the free cortisol assay is not currently available for routine clinical use, alternative approaches to estimate serum free cortisol can be used. These include calculated free cortisol (Coolens' method) and determining the free cortisol index (ratio of serum cortisol to transcortin concentrations). Preliminary data suggest that salivary cortisol measurements might be another alternative approach to estimating the free cortisol in the circulation. When serum binding proteins (albumin, transcortin) are near normal, measurements of total serum cortisol continue to provide reliable assessment of adrenal function in critically ill patients, in whom a random serum total cortisol would be expected to be 15 microg/dl or more in most patients. In hypoproteinemic critically ill subjects, a random serum total cortisol level is expected to be 9.5 microg/dl or more in most patients. Data on Cosyntropin-stimulated serum total and free cortisol levels should be interpreted with the understanding that the responses in critically ill subjects are higher than those of healthy ambulatory volunteers. The Cosyntropin-induced increment in serum total cortisol should not be used as a criterion for defining adrenal function, especially in critically ill patients. CONCLUSIONS The routine use of glucocorticoids during critical illness is not justified except in patients in whom adrenal insufficiency was properly diagnosed or others who are hypotensive, septic, and unresponsive to standard therapy. When glucocorticoids are used, hydrocortisone should be the drug of choice and should be given at the lowest dose and for the shortest duration possible. The hydrocortisone dose (50 mg every 6 h) that is mistakenly labeled as low-dose hydrocortisone leads to excessive elevation in serum cortisol to values severalfold greater than those achieved in patients with documented normal adrenal function. The latter data should call into question the current practice of using such doses of hydrocortisone even in the adrenally insufficient subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baha M Arafah
- Division of Clinical and Molecular Endocrinology, University Hospitals/Case Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
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Carlson DE, Chiu WC, Scalea TM. Cecal ligation and puncture in rats interrupts the circadian rhythms of corticosterone and adrenocortical responsiveness to adrenocorticotrophic hormone. Crit Care Med 2006; 34:1178-84. [PMID: 16484905 DOI: 10.1097/01.ccm.0000207340.24290.3c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the altered patterns of pituitary-adrenal activity and impaired adrenocortical sensitivity to adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) in the cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) model of sepsis. DESIGN Prospective, controlled experiment. SETTING Basic science laboratory. SUBJECTS Sprague-Dawley male rats 300-450 g. INTERVENTIONS Indwelling arterial catheters and CLP with either an 18-(CLP18) or a 21-gauge needle or sham surgery. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Plasma ACTH and corticosterone recovered most rapidly after sham surgery and least rapidly after CLP18. From postoperative day 4 am through day 7, a robust diurnal rhythm of corticosterone (p < .001) with a modest rhythm of ACTH (p < .01) occurred only in sham rats, and the slope of the regression between plasma corticosterone and ACTH increased from am to pm after sham surgery (p < .05) but not after CLP. Corticosterone in response to intravascular ACTH (3, 10, and 250 ng/kg) 2 hrs after dexamethasone (0.25 mg/kg) only showed an am to pm difference after sham surgery. The pm sham responses to all doses of ACTH were greater (p < .01) than the respective am sham responses that were not different from the respective am or pm responses after CLP. Corticosterone after 10 ng/kg ACTH in the pm decreased as plasma macrophage migration inhibitory factor and IL-6 increased after CLP (r = -.691 and r = -.813, respectively; p < .02 in each case). CONCLUSIONS The adrenocortical sensitivity to ACTH in the pm after CLP is suppressed progressively with the intensity of inflammation. This suppression appears to be a major factor in the interruption of circadian patterns of hormonal secretion in sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drew E Carlson
- Department of Surgery, Program in Trauma, R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
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Schetz MR, Van den Berghe G. Do we have reliable biochemical markers to predict the outcome of critical illness? Int J Artif Organs 2006; 28:1197-210. [PMID: 16404695 DOI: 10.1177/039139880502801202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Current outcome prediction in critically ill patients relies on the art of clinical judgement and/or the science of prognostication using illness severity scores. The biochemical processes underlying critical illness have increasingly been unravelled. Several biochemical markers reflecting the process of inflammation, immune dysfunction, impaired tissue oxygenation and endocrine alterations have been evaluated for their predictive power in small subpopulations of critically ill patients. However, none of these parameters has been validated in large populations of unselected ICU patients as has been done for the illness severity and organ failure scores. A simple biochemical predictor of ICU mortality will probably remain elusive because the processes underlying critical illness are very complex and heterogeneous. Future prognostic models will need to be far more sophisticated.
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Affiliation(s)
- M R Schetz
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Catholic University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Beeman BR, Veverka TJ, Lambert P, Boysen DM. Relative adrenal insufficiency among trauma patients in a community hospital. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 62:633-7. [PMID: 16293500 DOI: 10.1016/j.cursur.2005.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2004] [Revised: 12/29/2004] [Accepted: 03/16/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The integrity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is a major determinant of the host response to stress. Recent studies have proven that low doses of hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone can significantly reduce mortality in patients with relative adrenal insufficiency (RAI) without increasing adverse events. STUDY DESIGN This study was a retrospective chart review of patients in a community hospital who carried the diagnosis of both adrenal insufficiency and trauma. RESULTS Over a 16-month period, the incidence of RAI among severely injured patients (injury severity score >/= 13) was 3%. Only 1 patient had the classic electrolyte findings of adrenal insufficiency, but all had vasopressor-dependent hypotension. Our patients had an average intensive care unit day stay of 37 days and were not tested for RAI on average until day 20 of their intensive care unit stay. Random cortisol levels did not correlate with injury severity. Six patients (75%) had a positive hemodynamic response to steroids. CONCLUSIONS Relative adrenal insufficiency after trauma is rare. In RAI, clear signs and symptoms are usually absent. The clinical diagnostic clue may be the unexplained hypotension and the resistance to inappropriately high doses of inotropes and vasoactive agents. The hemodynamic profile often shows a hyperdynamic state of high cardiac output and a low systemic vascular resistance. Baseline serum cortisol levels did not correlate with injury severity scores in this group of patients, which suggests a defect in the HPA axis. An intensive care unit day stay of greater than or equal to 20 days, ventilator dependence/acute respiratory distress syndrome, and a hyperdynamic state mandates consideration of endocrine testing to exclude RAI. Physiologic doses of hydrocortisone can reverse this potentially life-threatening syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian R Beeman
- Department of Surgery, Synergy Medical Education Alliance, 1000 Houghton Avenue, Saginaw, MI 48603, USA.
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Enríquez de Salamanca A, García R. Response of rat fasciculata-reticularis cells in primary culture to bacterial lipopolysaccharide. Microbes Infect 2006; 7:1077-86. [PMID: 16023882 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2005.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2004] [Revised: 02/02/2005] [Accepted: 02/15/2005] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the direct effect of a wide range of concentrations of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) of Escherichia coli O111:B4 on fasciculata-reticularis cells in primary cultures. In short-term cultures of fasciculata-reticularis cells, the presence of low (1-10 microg/ml) doses of LPS in the medium produced a decrease in ACTH-induced corticosterone secretion, in a dose-dependent manner and independent of the culture medium. The corticosterone production stimulated by db-cAMP was slightly decreased by the presence of LPS in culture medium, while the pregnenolone induced corticosterone biosynthesis was not modified. LPS modified the binding of [125I]-Tyr23-ACTH to the fasciculata-reticularis cell membrane and the signal transduction pathway, as LPS reduced ACTH-induced cAMP production. In long-term cultures, the presence of LPS in the medium produces a decrease in the specific binding of [125I]-Tyr23-ACTH, while the presence of ACTH in the culture medium produced an increase in its specific binding. The use of high doses of LPS (100-250 microg/ml) has helped to clarify some aspects of the LPS action. These doses of LPS severely inhibited ACTH-induced corticosterone production, and clearly reduced the corticosterone production stimulated by db-cAMP and the binding of ACTH to its receptors. In long-term cultures, LPS decreased the number of ACTH receptors, an effect that was reversed by subsequent exposure to ACTH. These results indicate that LPS exerts a direct action on fasciculata-reticularis cells and a model of the mechanism of LPS action is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amalia Enríquez de Salamanca
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Faculty of Chemistry, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Hoen S, Mazoit JX, Asehnoune K, Brailly-Tabard S, Benhamou D, Moine P, Edouard AR. Hydrocortisone increases the sensitivity to α1-adrenoceptor stimulation in humans following hemorrhagic shock*. Crit Care Med 2005; 33:2737-43. [PMID: 16352953 DOI: 10.1097/01.ccm.0000189743.55352.0e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the pressor response to phenylephrine infusion before and after hydrocortisone in severe trauma patients and to correlate this response with their adrenal reserve. DESIGN Prospective clinical study. SETTING Surgical intensive care unit in a university teaching hospital. PATIENTS Twenty-three young trauma patients (Injury Severity Score, 38 +/- 14) were studied at the end of the resuscitative period (27 +/- 15 hrs after trauma). INTERVENTIONS Total cortisol response to intravenous corticotropin bolus (250 microg) was obtained. Total cortisol response <9 microg/dL defined an impaired adrenal function and the patient was called a nonresponder. Twelve to 24 hrs following this stimulation, phenylephrine was infused in a stepwise manner to establish the phenylephrine-mean arterial pressure dose-response curve before and after intravenous hydrocortisone administration (50 mg). An Emax model was used to describe the curve; the influence of the group (responder/nonresponder), the sequence (before/after hydrocortisone), and three covariates (Injury Severity Score, shock, and interleukin-6) were thereafter tested. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Forty-three percent of patients were nonresponders. Total cortisol response was not correlated with serum albumin concentration and was negatively correlated with the interleukin-6 concentration. A trend for a higher incidence of nonresponders (53% vs. 36%) and a lesser total cortisol response (7.9 +/- 5.1 vs. 12.5 +/- 5.1 microg/dL) was observed in the shock patients. A phenylephrine dose-response structure (E0, ED50, and Emax) was described without influence of the group and the sequence. However, hydrocortisone induced a 37% decrease in ED50 without change in Emax in the shock patients. CONCLUSION An acute administration of hydrocortisone increases the sensitivity to alpha1-adrenoceptor stimulation in fully resuscitated severe trauma patients following hemorrhagic shock. This effect is independent of the adrenal reserve of the patients and different from that previously reported in septic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Hoen
- Service d'Anesthésie-Réanimation et Unité Propre de Recherche de l'Enseignement Supérieur-Equipe d'Accueil (UPRES-EA 3540), Hôpital de Bicêtre, Bicêtre, France
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Goodman S, Sprung CL, Ziegler D, Weiss YG. Cortisol changes among patients with septic shock and the relationship to ICU and hospital stay. Intensive Care Med 2005; 31:1362-9. [PMID: 16151722 DOI: 10.1007/s00134-005-2770-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2004] [Accepted: 07/25/2005] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate adrenal function in patients with severe sepsis or septic shock. DESIGN A prospective study of unstimulated and high-dose ACTH stimulated cortisol levels on days 1 and 2 following ICU admission and day 28 or last day of hospitalization (herein day 28). SETTING General intensive care unit. PATIENTS 34 septic patients. INTERVENTIONS On days 1, 2, and 28 of sepsis unstimulated and ACTH stimulated cortisol levels were evaluated. End-points were length of ICU and hospital stay and 28 day all cause mortality. MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS Eight patients on days 1 and 2 had criteria of adrenal insufficiency defined as unstimulated cortisol levels less than 15 microg/dl. Patients with unstimulated cortisol levels less than 15 microg/dl on day 1 or change of 9 microg/dl or less had longer ICU stays. Patients with unstimulated cortisol levels less than 15 microg/dl on day 1 also demonstrated longer hospital stay. On day 1 regression analysis revealed that unstimulated cortisol levels had a significant inverse correlation with length of ICU and hospital stay. The proportional change between unstimulated cortisol and post-ACTH cortisol (Delta%) is a new modality; the higher this Delta% value, the longer is the patient's ICU and hospital stay. A significant positive correlation was found in survivors when comparing unstimulated cortisol vs. day 28 changes. CONCLUSIONS The present study highlights the wide range of cortisol levels among patients with sepsis. We observed a difference in cortisol response pattern between survivors and nonsurvivors on day 28. The proportional change between unstimulated cortisol and post-ACTH cortisol was used as a method to evaluate the relative change in cortisol levels between patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergei Goodman
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Hadassah University Hospital, Hadassah Medical School, Hebrew University, P.O.B. 12000, 91120 Jerusalem, Israel
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31
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Marklund N, Peltonen M, Nilsson TK, Olsson T. Low and high circulating cortisol levels predict mortality and cognitive dysfunction early after stroke. J Intern Med 2004; 256:15-21. [PMID: 15189361 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2796.2004.01334.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Elevated cortisol levels are associated with confusion and poor outcome after stroke. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DS), the most abundant adrenal androgen may act as an anti-glucocorticoid. An altered regulation of these steroids may affect numerous brain functions, including neuronal survival. The purpose of this study was to investigate serum cortisol and DS levels and the cortisol/DS ratio early after stroke and relate our findings to the presence of disorientation and mortality. DESIGN Patients with acute ischaemic stroke (n = 88, 56 men and 32 women) admitted to a stroke unit were investigated with repeated clinical assessments and scores for degree of confusion, extent of paresis and level of functioning. Serum cortisol (C) and DS were measured on day 1 and/or day 4. Data for 28-day and 1-year mortality are presented. A control group of 65 age-matched healthy individuals was used. Multivariate analyses of mortality rates in the different tertiles or sixtiles of serum cortisol were performed with logistic regression, adjusting for age, sex, diabetes and level of consciousness. RESULTS There was no difference in serum cortisol levels on day 1 for stroke patients when compared with control group values. Initial cortisol levels were significantly higher in the patients with acute disorientation versus orientated patients (P < 0.05). Cortisol levels on day 1 were an independent predictor of 28-day mortality, and patients with low cortisol levels (<270 nmol L(-1)) and increased levels (>550 nmol L(-1)) both had an increased 1-year mortality. DS levels on day 1 were significantly elevated in stroke patients. CONCLUSION Hypercortisolism is associated with cognitive dysfunction early after ischaemic stroke. High and low circulating cortisol levels are associated with increased mortality after stroke. DS levels were not associated with clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Marklund
- Department of Neuroscience and Neurosurgery, Uppsala University, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden.
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32
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To highlight the role of relative adrenal insufficiency in the outcome of critically ill patients with sepsis and systematically review the literature regarding the use of corticosteroids for management of severe sepsis/septic shock. DATA SOURCES A computerized search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Database was undertaken from 1966 to March 2003 using the search terms intensive care unit, critical care, corticosteroids, glucocorticoids, adrenal insufficiency, sepsis, and septic shock. Bibliographies of all articles retrieved were searched for relevant articles not identified by the computerized search. DATA EXTRACTION/SYNTHESIS Six trials were identified after publication of the meta-analyses (1995), with a total of 505 patients. The results of these trials in septic shock suggest that low-dose corticosteroids can reduce vasopressor requirements and hasten reversal of shock. Some of these trials suggested a possible mortality benefit from therapy, and no trial demonstrated an increase in mortality or significant adverse effects. The benefit of this therapy may depend on the presence of relative adrenal insufficiency, as identified by the adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test. CONCLUSIONS Low-dose corticosteroids should be administered to patients with septic shock empirically, but should be discontinued if relative adrenal insufficiency is not confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa D Burry
- Department of Pharmacy, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Erkut ZA, Klooker T, Endert E, Huitinga I, Swaab DF. Stress of dying is not suppressed by high-dose morphine or by dementia. Neuropsychopharmacology 2004; 29:152-7. [PMID: 12955097 DOI: 10.1038/sj.npp.1300299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA)-axis activation is a response of the organism to psychological and physical stress, resulting in elevated levels of glucocorticoids, mainly cortisol in humans. In our previous studies we found post-mortem blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cortisol levels to be up to 20-fold higher than in vivo levels. Since clinical observations point to similar strong elevations of cortisol in fatally ill patients, we suggested that the high post-mortem cortisol levels might be due to the stress during the process of dying. We hypothesized that if the cortisol rise during dying is due to the psychological stress of the impending death, then the rise in cortisol should be inversely proportional to the degree of dementia, and that high-dose morphine giving analgesia, sedation, and sleep would suppress this response. Therefore, we measured the cortisol levels by radioimmunoassay (RIA) in the post-mortem CSF of 85 Alzheimer patients and 52 controls. In addition, post-mortem serum cortisol of 17 subjects from the Alzheimer group and nine from the control group were measured. The Alzheimer patients were subdivided according to their degree of dementia, as scored on the Reisberg Scale, before their death. All groups were further analyzed for the effect of morphine treatment, as well as for the effects of the confounding factors like age, gender, time, and season of death. Alzheimer patients had significantly higher cortisol levels than controls, both in CSF (mean (nmol/l)+/-SEM: 482+/-32 vs 285+/-30, respectively, p<0.001) and in serum (2854+/-279 vs 1533+/-395, p=0.011). Mean CSF cortisol level of the severely demented Alzheimer group was even significantly higher than that of mildly demented group (508+/-35 vs 225+/-65, p=0.024) and controls (p<0.001). Cortisol levels correlated positively with the degree of dementia in the Alzheimer group (r=0.236, p=0.035). High-dose morphine did not cause a suppression of cortisol rise, neither in controls nor in Alzheimer patients. Our results indicate that the extreme elevations of cortisol levels during dying are rather due to the organic stress of the organism than to psychological stress of the patient, and is not suppressed by high-dose morphine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeynel A Erkut
- Netherlands Institute for Brain Research, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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34
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Enríquez de Salamanca A, García R. Rat glomerulosa cells in primary culture and E. coli lipopolysaccharide action. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2003; 85:81-8. [PMID: 12798360 DOI: 10.1016/s0960-0760(03)00134-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
During endotoxic shock there is a dysfunction of the adrenal gland; both corticosterone and aldosterone secretion are altered. The aim of the present study is to use glomerulosa cells in primary culture as a target of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) action. Glomerulosa cells cultured in basal conditions are able to proliferate; bFGF and ACTH have antagonic effects, bFGF increases proliferation whereas ACTH is antimitogenic. LPS has a biphasic effect, in the short term it is antimitogenic and in the long term increases the proliferation rate. LPS inhibits ACTH-induced corticosterone secretion in a dose-dependent manner in glomerulosa cells in culture similar to that in fasciculata cells, but it does not exert an important direct effect on aldosterone secretion. These results show that LPS exerts different effects in ACTH and ANG II signal transduction pathways and in the two enzymes which catalyze the late step in the steroidogenesis, 11beta-hydroxylase and aldosterone synthase, which could be in agreement with the existence of both enzymes, regulated independently, in rat zona glomerulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Enríquez de Salamanca
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Faculty of Chemistry, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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35
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Abstract
The role of corticosteroid therapy in the management of septic shock has been debated for half a century. Results from large, well-designed, randomized clinical trials demonstrate no benefit, and perhaps harm, associated with short duration, high-dose methylprednisolone or dexamethasone administered at the onset of septic shock. Based on evidence of "relative adrenal insufficiency" and steroid-responsive adrenergic receptor desensitization in sepsis, administration of modest doses (200 to 300 mg/d) of hydrocortisone for 1 to 3 weeks has been investigated. A multicenter, placebo-controlled clinical trial demonstrated improved survival rates and faster cessation of vasopressors among patients with septic shock who have a poor response to corticotropin injection, consistent with relative adrenal insufficiency. However, concerns regarding a trend for higher mortality among corticotropin responders and the possibility that patients with true adrenal insufficiency may have been enrolled in this placebo-controlled trial, potentially skewing results, should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Curtis N Sessler
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Medical College of Virginia Hospitals, Richmond 23298, USA.
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36
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Williamson DR, Lapointe M. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and low-dose glucocorticoids in the treatment of septic shock. Pharmacotherapy 2003; 23:514-25. [PMID: 12680481 DOI: 10.1592/phco.23.4.514.32123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Severe sepsis is the leading cause of death among patients in intensive care units. Recombinant activated protein C is the only substance known to directly improve morbidity and mortality. Adrenal insufficiency occurs frequently in patients with sepsis and is associated with poor outcome. Although high-dose glucocorticoids have not positively affected clinical outcome, small trials in which low-dose glucocorticoids were administered to patients with septic shock and relative adrenal insufficiency have shown decreased mortality. The main effect of glucocorticoids in low-doses apparently is exerted through correction of suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. However, the therapeutic benefits of glucocorticoids may be related to their antiinflammatory properties and endogenous catecholamine-enhancing effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Williamson
- Pharmacy Faculty, University of Montreal, Department of Pharmacy Services, Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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37
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Huitinga I, Erkut ZA, van Beurden D, Swaab DF. Impaired hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis activity and more severe multiple sclerosis with hypothalamic lesions. Ann Neurol 2003; 55:37-45. [PMID: 14705110 DOI: 10.1002/ana.10766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
In this postmortem study, we investigated the relationship between multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions in the hypothalamus and the state of activity of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)-producing neurons that control the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. A high incidence (15/16) of MS lesions was found in the hypothalamus, of which more than 50% was active, that is, contained activated macrophages. MS patients have increased numbers of CRH-immunoreactive neurons coexpressing vasopressin (CRH/VP neurons), a sign of chronic activation of CRH neurons and increased CRH mRNA expression. Active MS lesions correlated with a low number of hyperactive CRH/VP neurons. High human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DR, -DP, -DQ expression, a measure for macrophage and microglial activation, correlated with low CRH mRNA expression. The nearer the HLA expression was situated to the CRH neurons, the stronger the inhibiting effect, suggesting that activated microglial cells or macrophages suppress these neurons. The more active MS lesions were present in the hypothalamus, the shorter was the disease duration until the moment of death, indicating an unfavorable course of the disease. Thus, MS patients have a chronically activated CRH system, but, in the subgroup of patients with active MS lesions in the hypothalamus, this activation is impaired and the disease course is worse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inge Huitinga
- Netherlands Institute for Brain Research, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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38
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39
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MacLaren R, Jung R. Stress-dose corticosteroid therapy for sepsis and acute lung injury or acute respiratory distress syndrome in critically ill adults. Pharmacotherapy 2002; 22:1140-56. [PMID: 12222550 DOI: 10.1592/phco.22.13.1140.33519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Sepsis and acute lung injury (ALI) or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are associated with high mortality rates despite recent therapeutic advances. Both disease states involve uncontrolled host defense responses that lead to inflammation, endothelial damage, enhanced coagulation, diminished fibrinolysis and fibroproliferation to produce microthrombi, and relative adrenal insufficiency. Corticosteroids inhibit the host defense response and may offer an inexpensive therapeutic option. Results of several randomized, double-blind studies demonstrated no survival benefit and higher secondary infection rates when supraphysiologic doses of corticosteroids were administered for less than 24 hours. Recently, the emphasis of research for corticosteroid therapy has involved adrenocortical replacement dosage regimens administered for several days to weeks, with doses corresponding to the stress level of the disease. Stress-dose therapy with hydrocortisone in patients with septic shock who require vasopressor support, especially if adrenal insufficiency is present, accelerates hemodynamic stability and reduces mortality. The frequency of gastrointestinal hemorrhage was higher with corticosteroid therapy than with placebo, but the occurrence of secondary infections was similar to that of placebo. The only randomized, double-blind study that evaluated stress-dose methylprednisolone therapy for ARDS was terminated early after only 24 patients were enrolled because therapy with methylprednisolone was associated with enhanced survival despite higher secondary infection rates. A multicenter study investigating stress-dose methylprednisolone for ARDS is under way and should provide valuable information. Sufficient data support stress-dose hydrocortisone therapy for vasopressor-dependent septic shock. Stress-dose methylprednisolone therapy for ALI-ARDS requires further study but may be warranted in cases of refractory infection-induced ARDS when impending mortality is likely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert MacLaren
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, University of Colorado Health Science Center, Denver 80262, USA.
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40
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Erkut ZA, Endert E, Huitinga I, Swaab DF. Cortisol is increased in postmortem cerebrospinal fluid of multiple sclerosis patients: relationship with cytokines and sepsis. Mult Scler 2002; 8:229-36. [PMID: 12120695 DOI: 10.1191/1352458502ms797oa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Hypothalmo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity is altered in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), resulting in elevated basal levels and enhanced response of cortisol in stimulation tests. HPA axis hyperactivation in MS is thought to be the result of complex interactions of genetic, immunologic, and neuroendocrinological mechanisms. In order to investigate whether cytokine levels in the central nervous system are associated with the activation of the HPA axis in MS, we measured cortisol, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10 and TNF-alpha levels in postmortem cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of 18 patients with severe MS and 50 controls. We also investigated the cortisol and cytokine levels in the CSF of a group of MS patients and controls who died with sepsis, in order to see whether acute infectious situations affect the association between cortisol and cytokines. The cortisol levels in MS patients were increased by 80% in comparison to controls (p=0.008). There was no difference in IL-6 levels between the groups, while IL-10 and TNF-alpha levels of the majority of subjects were below detection limits. There was a positive correlation between cortisol and IL-6 only in control patients with sepsis (r=0.89, p=0.019), but not within the MS patents with sepsis or MS and control groups without sepsis. Cortisol levels in postmortem serum and CSF were highly correlated (r>0.78, p<0.001). We concluded that the basal level of cortisol is significantly increased in the CSF of MS patients and that IL-6 is not responsible for this rise. The relationship between cortisol and IL-6 in sepsis is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z A Erkut
- Netherlands Institute for Brain Research, Amsterdam
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41
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De Kleijn ED, Joosten KFM, Van Rijn B, Westerterp M, De Groot R, Hokken-Koelega ACS, Hazelzet JA. Low serum cortisol in combination with high adrenocorticotrophic hormone concentrations are associated with poor outcome in children with severe meningococcal disease. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2002; 21:330-6. [PMID: 12075765 DOI: 10.1097/00006454-200204000-00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To study the correlation between serum concentrations of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol in relation to severity of disease in children with meningococcal sepsis. METHODS Subjects were children with meningococcal sepsis, admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit. Clinical data, laboratory values and blood samples were selected. Arterial cortisol, ACTH, interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha concentrations were measured on admission and studied for their relation to severity of disease (sepsis, septic shock/survivors, septic shock/nonsurvivors). RESULTS Seventy-two patients fulfilled the criteria for meningococcal sepsis. Sixty-two of these children with positive blood cultures of Neisseria meningitidis, who were not treated with corticosteroids before admission, were included. Fifty of the 62 patients had septic shock. Twelve of those children (24%) died. The median age of the subjects was 2.6 years (range, 0.3 to 16.1 years). Cortisol values were significantly lower in non-survivors (median, 654 nmol/l) than in survivors (median, 2184 nmol/l) (P < 0.01). ACTH values were significantly higher in children who died (median, 1271 ng/l) than in survivors (85 ng/l) (P < 0.01). The median cortisol:ACTH ratio decreased significantly depending on the disease severity categories. CONCLUSIONS Low serum cortisol concentrations in combination with high ACTH concentrations are associated with poor outcome in children with severe meningococcal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ester D De Kleijn
- Erasmus Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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42
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Yildiz O, Doganay M, Aygen B, Güven M, Keleştimur F, Tutuû A. Physiological-dose steroid therapy in sepsis [ISRCTN36253388]. Crit Care 2002; 6:251-9. [PMID: 12133187 PMCID: PMC125315 DOI: 10.1186/cc1498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2001] [Revised: 01/27/2002] [Accepted: 04/02/2002] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of the study was to assess the prognostic importance of basal cortisol concentrations and cortisol response to corticotropin, and to determine the effects of physiological dose steroid therapy on mortality in patients with sepsis. METHODS Basal cortisol level and corticotropin stimulation test were performed within 24 hours in all patients. One group (20 patients) received standard therapy for sepsis and physiological-dose steroid therapy for 10 days; the other group (20 patients) received only standard therapy for sepsis. Basal cortisol level was measured on the 14th day in patients who recovered. The outcome of sepsis was compared. RESULTS Only Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score was found related to mortality, independent from other factors in multivariate analysis. No significant difference was found between the changes in the percentage of SOFA scores of the steroid therapy group and the standard therapy group in survivors, nor between the groups in basal and peak cortisol levels, cortisol response to corticotropin test and mortality. The mortality rates among patients with occult adrenal insufficiencies were 40% in the steroid therapy group and 55.6% in the standard therapy group. DISCUSSION There was a trend towards a decrease in the mortality rates of the patients with sepsis who received physiological-dose steroid therapy. In the advancing process from sepsis to septic shock, adrenal insufficiency was not frequent as supposed. There was a trend (that did not reach significance) towards a decrease in the mortality rates of the patients with sepsis who received physiological-dose steroid therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orhan Yildiz
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
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Beishuizen A, Thijs LG. Relative adrenal failure in intensive care: an identifiable problem requiring treatment? Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2001; 15:513-31. [PMID: 11800521 DOI: 10.1053/beem.2001.0167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Adequate adrenocortical function is essential to survive critical illness. Most critically ill patients display an elevated plasma cortisol level, reflecting activation of the pituitary-adrenal axis, which is considered to be a homeostatic adaptation. In the setting of critical illness, the failure of an appropriate neuroendocrine response can lead to the picture of vasopressor-dependent refractory hypotension. This state of relative or functional adrenal insufficiency is characterized by an inadequate production of cortisol in relation to an increased demand during periods of severe stress, particularly prolonged critical illness such as multi-organ failure. This clinical entity, however, lacks clear-cut diagnostic criteria. What are the appropriate cortisol concentrations in the critically ill? Should base-line and adrenocorticotropic hormone-stimulated cortisol concentrations be assessed? The classical adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test is often used, but there are problems with interpreting its results. Other diagnostic tools, such as the low-dose adrenocorticotropic hormone test and relative eosinophilia, are promising but also lack proper criteria. A prompt response to hydrocortisone treatment is a major clue to the diagnosis. Recent studies with stress doses of hydrocortisone in sepsis and septic shock have shown a marked haemodynamic improvement, but whether patients with relative adrenal dysfunction benefit most from this treatment and whether there is definitely an effect on outcome is still undecided.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Beishuizen
- Department of Intensive Care, VU University Medical Centre, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, 1081 HV, The Netherlands
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44
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Lindholm J. The insulin hypoglycaemia test for the assessment of the hypothalamic--pituitary--adrenal function. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2001; 54:283-6. [PMID: 11298077 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2265.2001.01163.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J Lindholm
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Holstebro Hospital, Holstebro, Denmark.
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45
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Schroeder S, Wichers M, Klingmüller D, Höfer M, Lehmann LE, von Spiegel T, Hering R, Putensen C, Hoeft A, Stüber F. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis of patients with severe sepsis: altered response to corticotropin-releasing hormone. Crit Care Med 2001; 29:310-6. [PMID: 11246311 DOI: 10.1097/00003246-200102000-00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the functional integrity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in patients with severe sepsis by stimulating with corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). DESIGN Prospective observational study in consecutive intensive care unit patients with severe sepsis. SETTING Surgical intensive care unit and outpatient department of endocrinology in a university hospital. PATIENTS The study included 20 patients with the diagnosis of severe sepsis; six critically ill, nonseptic patients after major surgery; ten patients with primary adrenal insufficiency; ten patients with anterior pituitary insufficiency; and ten individuals without clinical signs of HPA axis disturbance. INTERVENTIONS CRH tests were performed with an intravenous bolus injection of 100 microg of human CRH. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS We studied the functional integrity of the HPA axis in patients with severe sepsis by performing the CRH test. In addition, during the period of severe sepsis, we repeatedly measured basal plasma concentrations of adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) and cortisol. The mean basal plasma cortisol concentration was decreased significantly in nonsurvivors with severe sepsis (288.8 +/- 29.1 [sem] nmol/L) compared with survivors (468.1+/- 18.6 nmol/L; p <.01). By calculating the ACTH/cortisol indices, we found no evidence for adrenal insufficiency in patients with severe sepsis. The mean ACTH/cortisol indices of nonsurvivors with severe sepsis (0.02 +/- 0.008) and survivors (0.01 +/- 0.002) were significantly lower compared with the index of patients with primary adrenal insufficiency (6.8 +/- 1.0; p <.001). In contrast, in nonsurvivors with severe sepsis, the plasma cortisol response to CRH stimulation was impaired compared with survivors: The mean basal cortisol concentration within the CRH test was 269.4 +/- 39.8 nmol/L in nonsurvivors compared with 470.8 +/- 48.4 nmol/L in survivors and increased to a peak value of 421.6 +/- 72.6 nmol/L in nonsurvivors and 680.7 +/- 43.8 nmol/L in survivors (p <.02). However, the change in plasma cortisol, expressed as mean +/- sem and calculated by subtracting the basal cortisol from the peak cortisol after CRH stimulation, was not significantly different in survivors with severe sepsis (243.5 +/- 36.1, range 111.0-524.0 nmol/L, n = 15) compared with nonsurvivors (161.0 +/- 38.9, range 42.0-245.0 nmol/L, n = 5; p >.05). CONCLUSIONS We found lower basal plasma cortisol concentrations in nonsurvivors compared with survivors of severe sepsis. In addition, the plasma cortisol response to a single CRH stimulation was impaired in nonsurvivors compared with survivors. Reduced responses to CRH stimulation may reflect a state of endocrinologic organ dysfunction in severe sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Schroeder
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Anästhesiologie und Spezielle Intensivmedizin, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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García García E, Milano Manso G, López Siguero J, Valls Moreno E, Calvo Macías C. Función suprarrenal en niños con sepsis y shock séptico. An Pediatr (Barc) 2001. [DOI: 10.1016/s1695-4033(01)77565-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
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Ba ZF, Wang P, Koo DJ, Zhou M, Cioffi WG, Bland KI, Chaudry IH. Testosterone receptor blockade after trauma and hemorrhage attenuates depressed adrenal function. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2000; 279:R1841-8. [PMID: 11049869 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.2000.279.5.r1841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Although the testosterone receptor antagonist flutamide restores the depressed immune function in males after trauma and hemorrhage, it remains unknown whether this agent has any salutary effects on adrenal function. To study this, male rats underwent laparotomy and were bled to and maintained at a blood pressure of 40 mmHg until 40% of the shed blood volume was returned in the form of Ringer lactate. Animals were then resuscitated and flutamide (25 mg/kg body wt) was administered subcutaneously. Plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone, as well as adrenal corticosterone and cAMP were measured 20 h after resuscitation. In additional animals, ACTH was administered and ACTH-induced corticosterone release and adrenal cAMP were determined. The results indicate that adrenal contents of corticosterone and cAMP were significantly decreased and morphology was altered after hemorrhage. Administration of flutamide improved corticosterone content, restored cAMP content, and attenuated adrenal morphological alterations. Flutamide also improved the diminished ACTH-induced corticosterone release and adrenal cAMP response at 20 h after hemorrhage and resuscitation. Furthermore, the diminished corticosterone response to ACTH stimulation in the isolated adrenal preparation was improved with flutamide. These results suggest that flutamide is a useful adjunct for improving adrenal function in males following trauma and hemorrhage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z F Ba
- Center for Surgical Research and Department of Surgery, Brown University School of Medicine and Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island 02903, USA
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Enríquez de Salamanca A, Portolés MT, García R. Binding of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide to fasciculata-reticularis and glomerulosa cells evaluated by flow cytometry. J Cell Biochem 2000; 79:386-94. [PMID: 10972976 DOI: 10.1002/1097-4644(20001201)79:3<386::aid-jcb40>3.0.co;2-p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Binding of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to the two cell types of the adrenal cortex: fasciculata-reticularis and glomerulosa cells has been studied by flow cytometry and using fluorescein-labeled lipopolysaccharide (FITC-LPS). The binding characteristics were different in relation to time course and number of binding sites. Both fasciculata-reticularis and glomerulosa cells bound LPS in a specific and saturable process. Fasciculata-reticularis cells showed a higher affinity for LPS binding than glomerulosa cells as deduced from Hill plots. Unlabeled LPS decreased FITC-LPS binding in both fasciculata-reticularis and glomerulosa cells, suggesting competition of both ligands for a limited number of binding sites. Lipid A seemed not to be essential for binding of LPS to fasciculata-reticularis cells. However, serum constituents inhibited FITC-LPS binding to both cell types, possibly due to cell interaction with HDL. The exposure of cells to LPS during cell culture did not modify the number of binding sites, but revealed cell size and surfaces structure changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Enríquez de Salamanca
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Faculty of Chemistry, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
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Abstract
The metabolic response to critical illness promotes catabolism, which mobilizes substrates for energy. Initially the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis is stimulated, but later there appears to be anterior pituitary depression. Despite this, the early increase in plasma cortisol levels is usually maintained by means independent of (falling) corticotropin levels. Some patients, however, develop acute adrenal insufficiency and appear to benefit from replacement exogenous glucocorticoid. However, identifying such patients is often difficult. The replacement of other deficiencies may not be in the patients' interests. For example, leptin, a stress-related hormone, has multiple effects, some seemingly advantageous and others detrimental in critical illness. Its overall influence and significance remains unclear.The health of gut mucosa and the inflammatory response might be improved or influenced to the (presumed) benefit of the patient by agents such as glutamine, arginine, some eicosanoids, and exogenous nucleic acids. Such "immunonutrition" appears to improve mortality and other measures of outcome in surgical intensive care unit patients and those with sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin G. Lavery
- Consultant in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Regional Intensive Care Unit, Royal Hospitals, Belfast, N. Ireland; Specialist Registrar in Anaesthesia, Royal Hospitals, Belfast, N. Ireland
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Shimokawa H, Kuroiwa-Matsumoto M, Takeshita A. Cytokine generation capacities of monocytes are reduced in patients with severe heart failure. Am Heart J 1998; 136:991-1002. [PMID: 9842012 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-8703(98)70155-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunologic mechanisms mediated by proinflammatory cytokines have been implicated in the pathogenesis of heart failure. Although monocytes are the major source of such cytokines, little is known about their cytokine generation capacities in heart failure. METHODS We measured plasma levels of 7 major monocyte-related cytokines and the generation capacity of monocytes for 3 cytokines (interleukin-1alpha, interleukin-1beta, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha) on stimulation by lipopolysaccharide in 45 consecutive patients with heart failure and 27 controls. The cytokine levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS The generation capacities of monocytes for all 3 cytokines were decreased in patients with worsened outcome during hospitalization and the monocyte capacities were significantly reduced in patients with severe heart failure (New York Heart Association class IV). There was a significant negative correlation between the cytokine generation capacities of monocytes and the plasma cortisol levels. Moreover, cortisol significantly inhibited the cytokine production by lipopolysaccharide-stimulated monocytes ex vivo. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that the cytokine generation capacities of monocytes are reduced in patients with severe heart failure, partly because of the negative regulation by cortisol. Because monocytes and cytokines play a central role in immune responses, this reduced monocyte function may be involved in part in the pathophysiology of severe heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Shimokawa
- Research Institute of Angiocardiology and Cardiovascular Clinic, Kyushu University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan.
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