Circadian patterns of plasma cortisol, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, and testosterone in congenital adrenal hyperplasia

Hyperinsulinemic-Euglycemic Clamp Strengthens the Insulin Resistance in Nonclassical Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

OBJECTIVE

Insulin sensitivity evaluation by hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp in nonclassical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NC-CAH) due to 21-hydroxilase deficiency.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Cross-sectional study at university hospital outpatient clinics.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

NC-CAH patients (25 females, 6 males; 24 ± 10 years) subdivided into C/NC (compound heterozygous for 1 classical and 1 nonclassical allele) and NC/NC (2 nonclassical alleles) genotypes were compared to controls.

RESULTS

At diagnosis, C/NC patients presented higher basal and adrenocorticotropin-stimulated 17-hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione levels than NC/NC genotype. Patients and controls presented similar weight, body mass index, abdominal circumference, and total fat body mass. NC-CAH patients showed higher waist-to-hip ratio, lower adiponectin and lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels with no changes in fasting plasma glucose, glycated hemoglobin, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, leptin, interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor alpha, C-reactive protein, and carotid-intima-media thickness. All patients had used glucocorticoid (mean time of 73 months). Among the 22 patients with successful clamp, 13 were still receiving glucocorticoid-3 patients using cortisone acetate, 9 dexamethasone, and 1 prednisone (hydrocortisone equivalent dose of 5.5mg/m²/day), while 9 patients were off glucocorticoid but had previously used (hydrocortisone equivalent dose of 5.9mg/m2/day). The NC-CAH patients presented lower Mffm than controls (31 ± 20 vs 55 ± 23µmol/min-1/kg-1, P = 0.002). The Mffm values were inversely correlated with the duration of glucocorticoid treatment (r = -0.44, P = 0.04). There was association of insulin resistance and glucocorticoid type but not with androgen levels.

CONCLUSION

Using the gold standard method, the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp, insulin resistance was present in NC-CAH patients and related to prolonged use and long-acting glucocorticoid treatment. Glucocorticoid replacement and cardiometabolic risks should be monitored regularly in NC-CAH.

An integrated PK-PD model for cortisol and the 17-hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione biomarkers in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia

Aims

The aim of this study was to characterize the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationships of cortisol and the adrenal biomarkers 17‐hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH).

Methods

A nonlinear mixed‐effect modelling approach was used to analyse cortisol, 17‐hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione concentrations obtained over 6 hours from children with CAH (n = 50). A circadian rhythm was evident and the model leveraged literature information on circadian rhythm in untreated children with CAH. Indirect response models were applied in which cortisol inhibited the production rate of all three compounds using an I_max model.

Results

Cortisol was characterized by a one‐compartment model with apparent clearance and volume of distribution estimated at 22.9 L/h/70 kg and 41.1 L/70 kg, respectively. The IC₅₀ values of cortisol concentrations for cortisol, 17‐hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione were estimated to be 1.36, 0.45 and 0.75 μg/dL, respectively. The inhibitory effect was found to be more potent on 17OHP than D4A, and the IC₅₀ values were higher in salt‐wasting subjects than simple virilizers. Production rates of cortisol, 17‐hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione were higher in simple‐virilizer subjects. Half‐lives of cortisol, 17‐hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione were 60, 47 and 77 minutes, respectively.

Conclusion

Rapidly changing biomarker responses to cortisol concentrations highlight that single measurements provide volatile information about a child's disease control. Our model closely captured observed cortisol, 17‐hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione concentrations. It can be used to predict concentrations over 24 hours and allows many novel exposure metrics to be calculated, e.g., AUC, AUC‐above‐threshold, time‐within‐range, etc. Our long‐range goal is to uncover dose–exposure–outcome relationships that clinicians can use in adjusting hydrocortisone dose and timing.

Would Cortisol Measurements Be a Better Gauge of Hydrocortisone Replacement Therapy? Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia as an Exemplar

There is an increase in mortality and morbidity as well as poor quality of life in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and other causes of adrenal insufficiency. Glucocorticoid replacement therapy should aim to replace the missing cortisol as close as possible to the normal circadian rhythm using hydrocortisone. Dosing should be based on the individual's absorption and clearance of the drug. Adequacy of dosing should be checked using 24-hour profiles of plasma cortisol with samples drawn preferably every hour or at least every 2 hours. Measurement of cortisol should be the preferred method of assessing replacement therapy as it is over- and undertreatment with hydrocortisone, both of which can occur over a 24-hour period, which leads to the problems observed in patients with CAH and adrenal insufficiency.

Height Velocity defined metabolic Control in Children with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia using urinary GC-MS Analysis

BACKGROUND

Treatment of children with classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) with glucocorticoids is a difficult balance between hypercortisolism and hyperandrogenism. Biochemical monitoring of treatment is not well defined. Achievement of a normal growth rate is the most important therapeutic goal.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 123 24-h GC-MS urinary steroid metabolome analyses together with their corresponding one-year height velocity (HV) z-scores in 63 prepubertal children aged 7.2 ± 1.6 years with classic CAH due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency treated with hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone.

RESULTS

Multivariate linear mixed effects model analysis revealed a positive influence of CAH-specific z-scores of summed urinary androgen metabolites (B= 0.97 ± 0.20, t-value = 4.97, P < 0.0001) and a negative influence of the cortisol metabolite tetrahydrocortisol (B= -1.75 ± 0.79, t-value = -2.20, P = 0.03) on HV z-scores. ROC analysis demonstrated that adrenal androgen excess, defined as HV > 1.5 z, was best determined by a z-score of all urinary androgen metabolites of > 0.512 (accuracy 66.2%, sensitivity 57.1 %, specificity 74.4%, positive prediction values (PPV) 66.7%, negative prediction values (NPV) 65.9%). Tetrahydrocortisol excretion > 1480 µg/ m2 BSA/ d in conjunction with suppressed urinary androgen metabolites < 0.163 z indicated overtreatment, defined as HV < -1.5 z (accuracy 79.6 %, sensitivity 40.0 %, specificity 94.9%, PPV 75.0%, NPV 80.4%).

CONCLUSION

We could establish target values for urinary steroid metabolite excretions in children with CAH based on their growth rate. Urinary steroid metabolome analysis represents a highly suitable method for monitoring metabolic control in CAH children.

Human studies on hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis

The daily rhythm of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is regulated by the central clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Cortisol, a glucocorticoid, acts as a secondary messenger between the central clock and the peripheral tissues. Changes in clock time, as seen in shift workers, alters the HPA axis and results in metabolic disturbances associated with ill health. Depression, anorexia nervosa and obstructive sleep apnoea, are associated with cortisol rhythm phase shifts and increased cortisol exposure. Higher nocturnal cortisol exposure is observed in patients with Cushing's syndrome and adrenal incidentalomas with autonomous cortisol secretion and is associated with insulin resistance, and increased cardiovascular risk and mortality. A decrease in cortisol rhythm amplitude is seen in adrenal insufficiency, and despite replacement, patients have an impaired quality of life and increased mortality. Research on cortisol replacement has focused on replacing the cortisol daily rhythm by subcutaneous hydrocortisone infusions and oral modified release hydrocortisone formulations with the aim of improving disease control and quality of life.

Monitoring steroid replacement therapy in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to compare the analysis of 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) by radio-immunoassay (RIA) in serum with analysis by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) on dried blood spot samples (DBSS) for monitoring therapy in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), and to investigate differences in 17-OHP values during the day.

METHODS

Fourteen children (8 females), median age 4.2 (0.3-16.0) years, were studied. Serum samples and DBSS were drawn before hydrocortisone dosing.

RESULTS

17-OHP by LC-MS/MS in DBSS were highly correlated to 17-OHP by RIA in serum, r=0.956, p<0.01. A total of 26 three-time-point series were investigated. Using only the afternoon 17-OHP values to determine the hydrocortisone doses would have led to overdosing seven times and underdosing six times.

CONCLUSIONS

Good agreement was demonstrated between 17-OHP determination by RIA in serum and LC-MS/MS on DBSS. Multiple 17-OHP measurements per day are required to ensure sufficient hydrocortisone dose adjustment.

The urinary steroidome of treated children with classic 21-hydroxylase deficiency

Monitoring treatment of children with classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is difficult and biochemical targets are not well defined. We retrospectively analysed 576 daily urinary steroid hormone metabolite profiles determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry of 150 children aged 3.0-17.9 years with classic 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD) on hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone treatment. Daily urinary excretion of glucocorticoid-, 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP)-, and androgen metabolites as well as growth and weight gain are presented. Children with classic CAH exhibited increased height velocity during prepubertal age, which was then followed by diminished growth velocity during pubertal age until final height was reached. Final height was clearly below the population mean. 11β-Hydroxyandrosterone was the dominant urinary adrenal-derived androgen metabolite in CAH children. Adrenarche is blunted in children with CAH under hydrocortisone treatment and androgen metabolites except 11β-hydroxyandrosterone were suppressed. Cortisol metabolite excretion reflected supraphysiological hydrocortisone treatment dosage, which resulted in higher body-mass-indices in children with CAH. Reference values of daily urinary steroid metabolite excretions of treated children with CAH allow the clinician to adequately classify the individual patient regarding the androgen-, 17-OHP-, and glucocorticoid status in the context of the underlying disorder. Additionally, urinary 21-OHD-specific reference ranges will be important for research studies in children with CAH.

Differential effects of hydrocortisone, prednisone, and dexamethasone on hormonal and pharmacokinetic profiles: a pilot study in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia

Background

Little is known about the comparative effects of different glucocorticoids on the adrenal and growth hormone (GH) axes in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). We sought to compare the effects of hydrocortisone (HC), prednisone (PDN), and dexamethasone (DEX) in children with classic CAH and to investigate a potential role of pharmacogenetics.

Methods

Subjects were randomly assigned to three sequential 6-week courses of HC, PDN, and DEX, each followed by evaluation of adrenal hormones, IGF-1, GH, and body mass index (BMI). Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis of genes in the glucocorticoid pathway was also performed.

Results

Nine prepubertal subjects aged 8.1 ± 2.3 years completed the study. Mean ACTH, androstenedione, and 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) values were lower following the DEX arm of the study than after subjects received HC (p ≤ 0.016) or PDN (p ≤ 0.002). 17-OHP was also lower after HC than PDN (p < 0.001). There was no difference in IGF-1, GH, or change in BMI. SNP analysis revealed significant associations between hormone concentrations, pharmacokinetic parameters, and variants in several glucocorticoid pathway genes (ABCB1, NR3C1, IP013, GLCCI1).

Conclusions

DEX resulted in marked adrenal suppression suggesting that its potency relative to hydrocortisone and prednisone was underestimated. SNPs conferred significant differences in responses between subjects. Although preliminary, these pilot data suggest that incorporating pharmacogenetics has the potential to eventually lead to targeted therapy in children with CAH.

Hormonal circadian rhythms in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia: identifying optimal monitoring times and novel disease biomarkers

OBJECTIVES

The treatment goal in congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is to replace glucocorticoids while avoiding androgen excess and iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome. However, there is no consensus on how to monitor disease control. Our main objectives were to evaluate hormonal circadian rhythms and use these profiles to identify optimal monitoring times and novel disease biomarkers in CAH adults on intermediate- and long-acting glucocorticoids.

DESIGN

This was an observational, cross-sectional study at the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center in 16 patients with classic CAH.

METHODS

Twenty-four-hour serum sampling for ACTH, 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP), androstenedione (A4), androsterone, DHEA, testosterone, progesterone and 24-h urinary pdiol and 5β-pdiol was carried out. Bayesian spectral analysis and cosinor analysis were performed to detect circadian rhythmicity. The number of hours to minimal (TminAC) and maximal (TmaxAC) adrenocortical hormone levels after dose administration was calculated.

RESULTS

A significant rhythm was confirmed for ACTH (r(2), 0.95; P<0.001), 17OHP (r(2), 0.70; P=0.003), androstenedione (r(2), 0.47; P=0.043), androsterone (r(2), 0.80; P<0.001), testosterone (r(2), 0.47; P=0.042) and progesterone (r(2), 0.64; P=0.006). The mean (s.d.) TminAC and TmaxAC for 17OHP and A4 were: morning prednisone (4.3 (2.3) and 9.7 (3.5) h), evening prednisone (4.5 (2.0) and 10.3 (2.4) h), and daily dexamethasone (9.2 (3.5) and 16.4 (7.2) h). AUC0-24 h progesterone, androsterone and 24-h urine pdiol were significantly related to 17OHP.

CONCLUSION

In CAH patients, adrenal androgens exhibit circadian rhythms influenced by glucocorticoid replacement. Measurement of adrenocortical hormones and interpretation of results should take into account the type of glucocorticoid and time of dose administration. Progesterone and backdoor metabolites may provide alternative disease biomarkers.

Influence of 17-Hydroxyprogesterone, Progesterone and Sex Steroids on Mineralocorticoid Receptor Transactivation in Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

BACKGROUND

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency leads to accumulation of steroid precursors and adrenal androgens. These steroids may have a biological effect on the steroid receptor with clinical consequences on diagnostics and treatment in CAH patients. Therefore, we analysed the effect of accumulated steroids [17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP), progesterone, androstenedione and testosterone] on aldosterone-mediated transactivation of the human mineralocorticoid receptor (hMR).

METHODS

A transactivation assay using transiently transfected COS7 cells was employed. Cells were co-transfected with hMR-cDNA, MMTV-luciferase and renilla-luciferase expression vectors. Transfected cells were incubated with six different steroid concentrations in addition to aldosterone (10-10M). Luciferase and renilla activities were measured to quantify hMR transactivation.

RESULTS

Linear regression analysis showed statistically significant linear inhibition of transactivation of the hMR by 10-10M aldosterone in the presence of increasing 17OHP [F(1,5) = 11.34, p = 0.019] and progesterone [F(1,5) = 11.08, p = 0.021] concentrations. In contrast, neither androstenedione nor testosterone affected hMR transactivation by aldosterone at a concentration of 10-10M.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows for the first time that neither androstenedione nor testosterone has a biological effect on aldosterone-mediated transactivation of the hMR. 17OHP and progesterone have an anti-mineralocorticoid effect in vitro that may clinically lead to an increased requirement of mineralocorticoids in poorly controlled CAH patients. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

A phase 2 study of Chronocort, a modified-release formulation of hydrocortisone, in the treatment of adults with classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia

CONTEXT

Treatment of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is suboptimal. Inadequate suppression of androgens and glucocorticoid excess are common and current glucocorticoid formulations cannot replace the cortisol circadian rhythm.

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective was to characterize the pharmacokinetic profile of Chronocort, a modified-release hydrocortisone formulation, in adults with CAH. Secondary objectives included examining disease control following 6 months of Chronocort with dose titration.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PATIENTS

Sixteen adults (eight females) with classic CAH participated in an open-label, nonrandomized, Phase 2 study at the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center. Twenty-four-hour blood sampling was performed on conventional glucocorticoids and following 6 months of Chronocort. Chronocort was initiated at 10 mg (0700 h) and 20 mg (2300 h). Dose titration was performed based on androstenedione and 17-hydroxyprogresterone (17-OHP) levels and clinical symptomatology.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was cortisol pharmacokinetics of Chronocort and secondary outcomes included biomarkers of CAH control (androstenedione and 17-OHP).

RESULTS

In patients with CAH, Chronocort cortisol profiles were similar to physiologic cortisol secretion. Compared with conventional therapy, 6 months of Chronocort resulted in a decrease in hydrocortisone dose equivalent (28 ± 11.8 vs 25.9 ± 7.1 mg/d), with lower 24-hour (P = .004), morning (0700-1500 h; P = .002), and afternoon (1500-2300 h; P = .011) androstenedione area under the curve (AUC) and lower 24-hour (P = .023) and morning (0700-1500 h; P = .02) 17-OHP AUC.

CONCLUSIONS

Twice-daily Chronocort approximates physiologic cortisol secretion, and was well tolerated and effective in controlling androgen excess in adults with CAH. This novel hydrocortisone formulation represents a new treatment approach for patients with CAH.

Comparison of different glucocorticoid regimens in the management of classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency

BACKGROUND

There are recommendations regarding the total dose of hydrocortisone to be administered in the treatment of classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) to achieve the twin objectives of glucocorticoid replacement and control of hyperandrogenism. However, there is evidence gap regarding the breakup, timing and type of the steroid regimen.

OBJECTIVES

Efficacy of three different glucocorticoid regimens having the same total dose of steroid, differing in either the timing or type of evening steroid administered, in achieving biochemical control of the disease was assessed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was done in 13 prepubertal children with classical CAH over a 6-month period with 2 months devoted to each regimen. We used a prospective cross-over design using 10-15 mg/m(2) total dose of hydrocortisone. Two-fifths of the total dose of hydrocortisone was administered in the morning and one-fifth of the total dose was administered at noon in all the regimens. The regimens differed in the timing of the evening dose of hydrocortisone, 06.00-07.00 pm in regimen 1 and 09.00-10.00 pm in regimen 2. The third regimen had the evening dose of hydrocortisone replaced by an equivalent dose of prednisolone suspension which was administered at 10.00 pm. Serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone and testosterone levels were compared to assess the efficacy of treatment regimens.

RESULTS

The three different regimens were found to be similar in their ability to control 17-hydroxyprogesterone and testosterone levels. The percentage of patients with predefined criteria for biochemically controlled disease was similar in all the three regimens. However, there was a trend toward better control of 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels in patients receiving evening dose of prednisolone.

CONCLUSIONS

There is no significant advantage in administering the hydrocortisone dose late at night in patients with classical CAH.

Comparison of multiple steroid concentrations in serum and dried blood spots throughout the day of patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia

BACKGROUND/AIM

periodic measurement of plasma concentrations of cortisol precursors on a clinic visit may be of limited value in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia because it does not reflect a patient's circadian patterns of adrenal steroid secretion. Steroid profiling in dried blood spots (DBS) may allow for more frequent and sensitive monitoring.

METHODS

we compared the agreement between 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) and androstenedione (D4A) levels determined from DBS samples and concurrently collected serum samples. Blood was drawn from 9 congenital adrenal hyperplasia patients every 4 h over a 24-hour period. Serum and DBS steroid levels were measured by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

DBS determinations of 17-OHP overestimated corresponding serum levels (mean difference 1.67 ng/ml), and underestimated D4A serum levels (mean difference 0.84 ng/ml). However, the DBS assay yielded excellent agreement (97%) with serum 17-OHP, but did considerably poorer for D4A (31%).

CONCLUSIONS

our results indicate an excellent agreement between DBS and serum 17-OHP measurements to identify the peaks and troughs associated with an individual's circadian pattern. Larger-scale studies are required to evaluate the utility of DBS for home monitoring and to determine if more frequent monitoring leads to improved clinical outcomes.

The prevalence of testicular adrenal rest tumors and associated factors in postpubertal patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia caused by 21-hydroxylase deficiency

Development of a testicular adrenal rest tumor (TART) is common in males with congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and it can be an important cause of infertility. In the present study, we observed the prevalence of TARTs, and analyzed its associated factors in patients with 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Testicular ultrasonography was performed in 48 postpubertal male patients aged 10.6 to 27.1 years. To determine whether patients were undertreated, we analyzed the serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) levels to the time of ultrasonographic measurement and calculated the percentage of measurements when serum 17-OHP level was >10 ng/mL relative to the total number of measurements during the follow-up period. We divided the 6-year period before ultrasonographic measurement (time 0) into three 2-year intervals and calculated the average concentration of serum 17-OHP in each interval to give a -2(nd) to 0 year-average concentration (-2-0YAC), -4-2YAC and -6-4YAC. A TART was detected by ultrasonography in 31 of 48 patients (64.6%) and the median maximal cross-sectional area of the TARTs was 0.71 (0.03, 4.95) cm(2). The corrected final adult height was lower, and -4-2YAC and body mass index were higher in patients with TART than in those without. After controlling for the type of 21-hydroxylase deficiency, hydrocortisone-equivalent dose, age, and -6-4YAC, the size of TART was associated with a high undertreatment percentage with a marginal statistical significance. These results suggest that strict disease control is mandatory and regular examination with testicular ultrasonography is recommended in male patients, regardless of the type of 21-hydroxylase deficiency.

Nocturnal Dexamethasone versus Hydrocortisone for the Treatment of Children with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

Classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia affects approximately 1 in 15,000 children. Current treatment strategies using multiple daily doses of hydrocortisone lead to suboptimal outcomes. We tested the hypothesis that nocturnal administration of dexamethasone will suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis more effectively than standard hydrocortisone treatment by blocking the inherent diurnal secretion of ACTH. We performed a pilot study of five prepubertal patients comparing CAH control during two 24-hour hospitalizations, one on hydrocortisone and the other on dexamethasone. The patterns of adrenal suppression differed markedly between hydrocortisone and nocturnal dexamethasone, with significant suppression of the morning rise in ACTH, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, and androstenedione while on dexamethasone. On hydrocortisone therapy, there is a marked variation in ACTH and adrenal hormones depending on time of day and timing of hydrocortisone administration. Longer-term studies are needed to investigate the lowest effective dose and potential toxicity of nocturnal dexamethasone to determine its utility as a therapy for CAH.

Monitoring of therapy in congenital adrenal hyperplasia

BACKGROUND

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia is a group of disorders caused by defects in the adrenal steroidogenic pathways. In its most common form, 21-hydroxylase deficiency, patients develop varying degrees of glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid deficiency as well as androgen excess. Therapy is guided by monitoring clinical parameters as well as adrenal hormone and metabolite concentrations.

CONTENT

We review the evidence for clinical and biochemical parameters used in monitoring therapy for congenital adrenal hyperplasia. We discuss the utility of 24-h urine collections for pregnanetriol and 17-ketosteroids as well as serum measurements of 17-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, and testosterone. In addition, we examine the added value of daily hormonal profiles obtained from salivary or blood-spot samples and discuss the limitations of the various assays.

SUMMARY

Clinical parameters such as growth velocity and bone age remain the gold standard for monitoring the adequacy of therapy in congenital adrenal hyperplasia. The use of 24-h urine collections for pregnanetriol and 17-ketosteroid may offer an integrated view of adrenal hormone production but target concentrations must be better defined. Random serum hormone measurements are of little value and fluctuate with time of day and timing relative to glucocorticoid administration. Assays of daily hormonal profiles from saliva or blood spots offer a more detailed assessment of therapeutic control, although salivary assays have variable quality.

Duration of suppression of adrenal steroids after glucocorticoid administration

Hydrocortisone has long been the treatment of choice for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). However, treatment with this medication remains problematic. Patients with 21-hydroxylase deficiency CAH have significant diurnal variation in the secretion of 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP). When considering treatment strategies, this variation must be considered along with the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of exogenous glucocorticoids. Orally administered hydrocortisone is highly bioavailable, but it has a short time to maximum concentration (T_max) and half life (T_1/2). While prednisone has a somewhat longer T_max and T_1/2, they remain relatively short. There have been several studies of the pharmacodynamics of hydrocortisone. We present data indicating that the maximum effect of hydrocortisone in CAH patients is seen 3 hours after a morning dose. After an evening dose, suppression of adrenal hormones continues until approximately 0500 the next day. In both situations, however, there is a large degree of intersubject variability. These data are consistent with earlier published studies. Use of alternate specimen types, possibly in conjunction with delayed release hydrocortisone preparations under development, may allow the practitioner to design a medication regimen that provides improved control of androgen secretion. Whatever dosing strategy is used, clinical judgment is required to ensure the best outcome.

[Comparative study of prednisolone versus hydrocortisone acetate for treatment of patients with the classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency]

Hydrocortisone acetate is usually employed in the treatment of classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency. In Brazil, however, oral hydrocortisone acetate is only available from manipulation pharmacies. Prednisolone has stable oral pharmaceutical formulations commercially available, with the advantage of a single daily dose. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of oral prednisolone and oral hydrocortisone in the treatment of CAH due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Fifteen patients with mean (SD) chronological age of 7.2 (3.6) years, were evaluated in two consecutive 1-year periods. In the first year, hydrocortisone (17.5 mg/m2/day, divided in three doses) was used in the treatment, followed by the use of prednisolone (3 mg/m2/day, once in the morning) in the second year. The comparison between the two treatments was assessed after a one-year treatment period by: variation of height standard deviation score (SDS) (delta Height SDS), variation of height SDS according to bone age (delta BA SDS), variation of body mass SDS (delta BMI SDS) and serum levels of androstenedione. No significant difference was observed in relation to the delta Height SDS, delta BA SDS and delta BMI SDS. No significant difference was observed in the serum levels of androstenedione. We conclude that the efficacy of prednisolone administered once a day orally is comparable to the oral use of hydrocortisone three times a day. Oral prednisolone may be an option for patients with CAH due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency.

Clinical manifestations and hormonal profile of two women with Cushing's disease and mild deficiency of 21-hydroxylase

The development of Cushing's disease among patients with deficiency of 21-hydroxylase has not been observed to date. The clinical manifestations and the hormonal profile of this exceptional association are herein described through the study of two cases. The first one was a 39-yr-old woman who had undergone non-curative transsphenoidal surgery for a pituitary-dependent Cushing's syndrome 12 yr before. She showed hypertension, central obesity, severe hirsutism, alopecia and hyperpigmentation. Urinary excretion of cortisol was normal, but ACTH levels were very high and hormonal dynamic studies (cortisol circadian rhythm, insulin-induced hypoglycemia and dexamethasone suppression tests) revealed the qualitative disturbances that characterize Cushing's disease. Serum concentrations of androstenedione, free testosterone and 17-hydroxyprogesterone were clearly increased. Reexamination of the tissue samples from previous surgery confirmed the presence of an ACTH-producing pituitary adenoma. CYP21 gene analysis found the splicing 655G mutation at intron 2 and the V281L mutation at exon 7. The second case was a 21-yr-old woman who was diagnosed with pituitary ACTH-dependent Cushing's syndrome according to unequivocal clinical and laboratory findings. However, hirsutism was particularly severe and both serum androgens and 17-hydroxyprogesterone were elevated. The patient was heterozygote for a large conversion of CYP21 gene. In these cases, the clinical and biochemical expression of Cushing's syndrome was determined by the different severity of 21-hydroxylase deficiency and the subsequent residual ability of adrenal cortex to synthesize cortisol.

Indicators of adult height outcome in classical 21-hydroxylase deficiency congenital adrenal hyperplasia

OBJECTIVE

To obtain objective information on the relationship between adult height (AH), glucocorticoid (GC) dose, and degree of hormonal suppression in a population of patients with 21-hydroxylase deficiency congenital adrenal hyperplasia (21-OHD CAH) to optimize treatment regimes.

STUDY DESIGN

Multicenter retrospective chart review of patients with salt wasting 21-OHD CAH diagnosed in the first 6 months of life, and who had reached AH (n = 54). The data were compiled into a single database.

RESULTS

Mean adult height standard deviation score - midparental height standard deviation score was -1.1 for both sexes. Growth velocity was normal during childhood but compromised during infancy and puberty. Onset and tempo of puberty were normal-to-delayed. Bone age was closely correlated with chronologic age (r = 0.93). AH was negatively correlated with androstenedione in infancy (r -0.68; P =.03) and childhood (-0.66; P <.01) and with testosterone in childhood (r -0.44; P =.01), but not with dehydroepiandrosterone or 17-hydroxyprogesterone. GC dose was not associated with AH.

CONCLUSIONS

Mean AH was in the lower range of genetic potential in this group of persons with 21-OHD CAH. Androgen levels should be used in conjunction with growth velocity measurements to optimize GC dosing in persons with 21-OHD CAH.

Serum cortisol and 17-hydroxyprogesterone interrelation in classic 21-hydroxylase deficiency: is current replacement therapy satisfactory?

One of the main aims in the management of patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency is to achieve adequate suppression of the adrenal cortex with the smallest possible dose of glucocorticoid substitution. To evaluate the administration schedule of current replacement therapy regimens, we investigated the cortisol-17-hydroxyprogesterone interrelation in 36 patients (13 males and 23 females; median age, 12.3 yr; range, 6.1-18.8 yr) with salt-wasting congenital adrenal hyperplasia. As sufficient variation in 17-hydroxyprogesterone concentrations was required to allow analysis of the cortisol-17-hydroxyprogesterone interrelation, patients were divided into 2 groups depending on the adequacy of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis suppression. The first group consisted of 17 patients with suppressed 17-hydroxyprogesterone concentrations (group 1), and the second group consisted of 19 patients with nonsuppressed 17-hydroxyprogesterone concentrations (group 2). We determined serum cortisol and 17-hydroxyprogesterone concentrations at 20-min intervals for a total of 24 h while patients were receiving their usual replacement treatment with hydrocortisone and 9alpha-fludrocortisone. We also determined the lowest dose of dexamethasone required to suppress the 0800 h serum ACTH concentrations when administered as a single dose (0.3 or 0.5 mg/m(2)) the night before. Mean 24-h cortisol and 17-hydroxyprogesterone concentrations were 3.9 microg/dl (SD = 2.1) and 66.2 ng/dl (SD = 92.7), respectively, in group 1 and 4.1 microg/dl (SD = 2.5) and 4865.7 ng/dl (SD = 6951) in group 2. The 24-h 17-hydroxyprogesterone concentrations demonstrated circadian variation, with peak values observed between 0400-0900 h. In group 2, 17-hydroxyprogesterone concentrations decreased gradually in response to the rise in cortisol concentrations during the day, but remained low during the night despite the almost undetectable cortisol concentrations between 1600-2000 h. Mean 0800 h androstenedione concentrations correlated strongly with integrated 17-hydroxyprogesterone concentrations (r = 0.81; P < 0.0001), but not with integrated cortisol concentrations. There was a significant negative correlation between cortisol and 17-hydroxyprogesterone at lag time 0 min (r = -0.187; P < 0.0001), peaking at lag time 60 min (r = -0.302; P < 0.0001), with cortisol leading 17-hydroxyprogesterone by these time intervals. Finally, 0800 h serum ACTH concentrations were sufficiently suppressed after a dexamethasone dose of 0.3 mg/m(2) in all but three patients. These findings indicate that in classic 21-hydroxylase deficiency, hydrocortisone should be administered during the period of increased hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity, between 0400-1600 h, with the biggest dose given in the morning. Blood investigations performed as part of monitoring of congenital adrenal hyperplasia patients should include androstenedione and 17-hydroxyprogesterone concentrations determined in the morning before the administration of hydrocortisone. It should also be emphasized that blood investigations are only complementary to the overall assessment of these patients, which is primarily based on the evaluation of growth and pubertal progress.

Correlation of blood-spot 17-hydroxyprogesterone daily profiles and urinary steroid profiles in congenital adrenal hyperplasia

OBJECTIVE

To compare the value of blood-spot 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) daily profiles and urinary steroid excretion in untreated and treated patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH).

PATIENTS

Ten patients with CAH were investigated during steroid replacement therapy (Group 1), and 11 patients were investigated without treatment (Group 2).

METHODS

Capillary blood samples were collected for measurement of blood-spot 17-OHP values by non-chromatographic radioimmunoassay. Steroid profiles of 24-h urine samples were analyzed by gas chromatography.

RESULTS

There was a close correlation between the individual daily means of blood-spot 17-OHP measurements and the pregnanetriol/ tetrahydrocortisone ratio in both groups of patients (Group 2: r=0.839, p<0.001; Group 1: r=0.686, p<0.001). Almost the same correlation was found between the blood-spot 17-OHP value and the sum of three 17-hydroxyprogesterone metabolites/the sum of three cortisol/cortisone metabolites ratio (Group 2: r=0.918, p<0.001; Group 1: r=0.741, p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Blood-spot 17-OHP measurements and 24-h urinary steroid profile have the same impact in identification and monitoring therapy of children with CAH.

Randomised controlled trial of growth effect of hydrocortisone in congenital adrenal hyperplasia

The influence of 15 or 25 mg/m2 of daily oral hydrocortisone with fludrocortisone 0.1 mg/day on growth and laboratory findings was evaluated in a prospective randomised crossover trial over 12 months in 26 children with 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Nine non-salt losers had fludrocortisone stopped for a further six month period. Height velocity was significantly decreased during treatment with 25 mg/m2 as compared with 15 mg/m2. This was the most sensitive indicator of corticosteroid treatment excess. A dose dependent effect upon plasma concentrations of 17-hydroxyprogesterone, testosterone, and androstenedione was found but increased values were still detected in more than half of the determinations made during the 25 mg/m2 period. Height velocity and 17-hydroxyprogesterone concentrations were positively correlated. Growth hormone response to clonidine stimulation and insulin-like growth factor-1 concentrations were both within reference values and there was no difference between treatment periods. Withdrawal of fludrocortisone did not result in any difference for the non-salt losers. It was concluded that 25 mg/m2 of hydrocortisone depressed growth in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and that full suppression, or even normalisation, of plasma concentrations of 17-hydroxyprogesterone and androgens should not be considered a treatment goal, but instead an indication of corticosteroid treatment excess.

Urinary pregnanetriol-3-glucuronide in children: age-related change and application to the management of 21-hydroxylase deficiency

Urinary concentrations of pregnanetriol-3-glucuronide (PT-3-G) were determined in 485 normal Japanese subjects (277 males and 208 females), aged 5 days to 20 years, using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The usefulness of urinary PT-3-G concentrations before giving the morning dose of medications in monitoring the adequacy of glucocorticoid treatment was assessed in eight patients with 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD). The ratio of PT-3-G to excreted creatinine (PT-3-G/Cre ratio) increased significantly during the first month and did not change from age 1 month to 1 year of life. The ratio decreased to a nadir at age 3 or 4 years followed by continuous, significant increase until late adolescence. In the subjects treated with corticosteroids for 21-OHD, PT-3-G/Cre ratios at the 50th percentile or below suggested a risk of excessive treatment, as judged by the patients' growth. Measurement of the PT-3-G/Cre ratio enabled recognition of corticosteroid overtreatment, which was not demonstrated by determining the serum concentrations of 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP). On the other hand, ratios at the upper 95-99% tolerance limits seemed to be required for optimal control. The present study revealed the normal age-related changes in urinary excretion of PT-3-G and showed it to be a reliable marker for evaluating glucocorticoid treatment in young children with 21-OHD.

Urinary 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone in management of 21-hydroxylase deficiency

OBJECTIVES

The study was designed to assess the reliability of measurement of 24-hour urinary 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) by radio-immunoassay (RIA) as an alternative biochemical assessment for monitoring the treatment of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD) and to assess the need for sample purification by column chromatography to improve assay specificity.

METHODOLOGY

Morning serum 17-OHP was measured using RIA and 24-hour urinary pregnanetriol using gas chromatography. Twenty-four-hour urinary 17-OHP was measured in samples from 17 prepubertal patients with CAH due to 21-OHD, and 20 normal prepubertal children as controls. In 24 urine samples, RIA of 17-OHP was performed with and without column chromatography.

RESULTS

There was a good correlation between 24-hour urinary 17-OHP and 24-hour urinary pregnanetriol (r = 0.962, P < 0.01) and between 24-hour urinary 17-OHP and morning serum 17-OHP (r = 0.955, P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in the RIA of the urine samples with and without purification by column chromatography.

CONCLUSIONS

The measurement of 24-hour urinary 17-OHP is a reliable alternative for the biochemical monitoring of 21-OHD, and RIA specificity is unaffected by omission of column chromatography.

Morning steroid profile in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia under different hydrocortisone schedules

We studied 13 children with 21-hydroxyalse deficiency to explore the immediate potential suppressive effect of hydrocortisone dose schedule on the adrenal cortex. They were given 20 mg/m2 daily in a controlled trial. After random administration of a greater dose in the morning (7 patients) or at night (6 patients), we measured plasma levels of 17-hydroxyprogesterone, testosterone, and androstenedione at times-24, 0, 2, 4, and 6h. Considerable fluctuation of the steroid levels, unrelated to the drug intake, was observed. There was no statistically significant differences between the "morning dose" and "night dose" groups for any steroid. We conclude that; (i) the greater night dose did not avoid the 17-hydroxyprogesterone morning peaks, and (ii) the variation in plasma steroid levels is so marked that a single morning sample is unreliable to reflect the degree of adrenal suppression.

Serum 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone in infants and children as measured by a direct radioimmunoassay kit

A direct 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) radioimmunoassay kit was used for the assay of samples from 219 infants and children. The kit was used according to the manufacturer's protocol on unextracted serum or plasma and also on reconstituted material extracted from the serum with propanol-heptane. The extraction protocol recovers approximately 88% of 17-OHP. Patients were grouped as infants 3-90 days (96 subjects) or older children, adolescents and young adults 91 days-20 years (123 subjects). 17-OHP results by the direct and extraction protocols correlated but the slopes of the regression lines (0.43 and 0.63) differed in the two groups, indicating that only about 49% of the immunoreactive material measured by the kit in the infants was 17-OHP whereas the corresponding percentage was 72% in the older children. Despite this nonspecificity, the present antibody is much more specific for 17-OHP in the presence of neonatal plasma steroids than that used previously. Reference values were obtained for the two groups using the method with and without an extraction step. 17-OHP values on four untreated patients with CAH were clearly elevated at the time of diagnosis. It is recommended that when the kit is used with neonatal and infant samples, an extraction step should be incorporated to enhance specificity.

[Problems and characteristics of the orthodontic treatment of a patient with adrenogenital syndrome]

This article describes biochemical relationships accompanying pathological symptoms of C-21-hydroxylase deficiency (adrenogenital syndrome). Disturbances of bone growth and development have been observed, even during medical treatment. A discrepancy of 2 1/2 years was noted between the patients chronological age and his bone development. The patient reaches a maximum height of 155 to 160 cm. Supernumeraries and delayed mineralisation are to be expected. Surgical procedures require an increase in cortisone dosage. When considering orthodontic treatment, one must determine the most appropriate time to start, take into account the long retention period and pay particular attention to oral hygiene.

Monitoring treatment in congenital adrenal hyperplasia

We report results of monitoring treatment in 41 patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia controlled over 0.3-13.1 years using standard auxological techniques alone. Doses of glucocorticoid (15-25 mg/m2/day) and mineralocorticoid (0.15 mg/m2/day) replacement were determined initially using biochemical indices and thereafter adjusted according to surface area. Monitoring was solely directed at maintaining a 50th centile height velocity for chronological age. Of 41 patients, 32 were referred after the newborn period. Nearly half of these patients were either overtreated or undertreated before their referral. Of the nine treated from birth, all but one were in good control and only two have had a second hospital admission. Present height standard deviation scores (SDS) for chronological age range from -1.60 to -0.26. Height SDS for bone age were compared with midparental heights in 33 patients: 15 treated with early emphasis on growth had a height prognosis exceeding midparental values; patients who had experienced appreciable prior overtreatment or undertreatment fared less well. In the long term management of congenital adrenal hyperplasia correction of salt loss is of primary importance. Doses of glucocorticoid required in addition to mineralcorticoid replacement should be continuously assessed and adjusted to maintain a normal growth velocity. This is most conveniently achieved by standardising replacement doses on surface area.

170H-progesterone rhythms in congenital adrenal hyperplasia

Serial blood spot and saliva samples were collected at home by 18 patients being treated for congenital adrenal hyperplasia to determine the circadian rhythm of 170H-progesterone as an index of therapeutic control. There was a strong correlation between the magnitude of the circadian fall and a single morning measurement of the plasma testosterone concentration taken near the time of the 170H-progesterone rhythm samples. Poor control in pubertal girls produced an exaggerated circadian fall in 170H-progesterone concentrations that were raised at all sampling times. Optimal control (plasma testosterone 1.5-2.5 nmol/l) was associated with blood spot and salivary 170H-progesterone concentrations at 0800 hours of between 30-70 nmol/l and 260-1000 pmol/l, respectively, falling thereafter to less than 10 nmol/l and less than 150 pmol/l, respectively. Similar results were obtained in prepubertal patients. Nomograms have been constructed to interpret the daily profiles of blood spot or salivary measurements of 170H-progesterone, or both. The analysis of 170H-progesterone circadian rhythms is useful in monitoring treatment in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia, particularly those who may be overtreated.

Radioimmunoassay of blood-spot 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone in the management of congenital adrenal hyperplasia

A robust assay for routine measurement of blood-spot 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) concentrations has been developed using a magnetizable, solid-phase antiserum and an 125I-radioligand. The working range of this assay (13.5-500 nmol/L) is well suited for the initial diagnosis of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and for monitoring replacement therapy in CAH patients. Data derived from multiple blood-spot samples, collected on two consecutive days, provide 17-OHP profiles. These profiles have been used to construct a chart allowing a rapid visual assessment of the efficacy of replacement therapy in CAH patients. Measurement of 17-OHP in the blood-spots of overtreated patients and accurate determination of normal range values in healthy infants relied on development of a sensitive assay (range 1.7-34 nmol/L). In the blood-spots of normal male (n = 50) and female (n = 50) infants collected 5-7 days after birth, 17-OHP concentrations were 7.62 +/- 2.55 nmol/L and 7.32 +/- 2.87 nmol/L respectively. Retrospective measurement of this steroid in samples from known CAH patients (n = 4), which had values ranging from 224 to 2145 nmol/L, support a role for measurement of blood-spot 17-OHP in high-risk screening programmes.

Hormones in saliva

Since the collection of saliva is noninvasive, nonstressful and usually very convenient there have been many recent studies examining the clinical relevance of measuring various hormones in saliva. It now appears that the measurement of most unconjugated steroids in saliva will provide clinically useful data whereas the measurement of conjugated steroids, thyroid hormones, and protein hormones is unlikely to be clinically relevant. The key factors determining whether the salivary concentration of a hormone or drug is likely to be clinically relevant are the mechanisms by which the material enters the saliva; the "free to protein bound" ratio for the material; and the structure of the material, i.e., its molecular weight, polarity and the presence of ionizable groups.

Diurnal variation in blood 17-hydroxyprogesterone concentrations in untreated congenital adrenal hyperplasia

Blood spot 17-hydroxyprogesterone concentrations were measured serially over 24 hours in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency before they started treatment with glucocorticoids, and the development of diurnal rhythm in pituitary-adrenal activity was studied. Five infants aged 2 to 26 days showed an intradiem variation of 17-hydroxyprogesterone concentrations within the diagnostic range but without a characteristic diurnal pattern. Blood spot 17-hydroxyprogesterone values in a further eight patients aged 3 months to 6.5 years showed a diurnal rhythm, with high concentrations in the morning and a nadir in the evening. The results suggest that a diurnal rhythm in pituitary-adrenal activity may develop as early as the third month of life in those infants with an increased endogenous concentration of adrenocorticotrophic hormone.

Plasma renin activity in the management of congenital adrenal hyperplasia

Fourteen children with salt losing and five children with non-salt losing congenital adrenal hyperplasia were studied. Venous samples were collected for measurement of plasma renin activity, serum 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone, testosterone, sodium, and creatinine. Overnight urinary sodium and creatinine excretions were measured after collection on an outpatient basis. Eight 'salt losers' had a raised plasma renin activity despite mineralocorticoid treatment, as did one 'non-salt loser'. Six of the children in whom clinical and biochemical control was inadequate, including the 'non-salt loser', had an increase in the dose of fludrocortisone. When the investigations were repeated one month later, a fall in plasma renin activity accompanied by a fall in 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone in all but one patient were found. The dose of mineralocorticoid may be as critical as the dose of glucocorticoid in the management of congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and regular determination of plasma renin activity should be made, particularly if clinical control is difficult.