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Horm Metab Res 1979; 11(10): 567-570
DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1092781
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© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Adrenal-Cortical Function in Patients with Medullary Carcinoma of the Thyroid and Pheochromocytoma

J. M. Feldman , S. A. Wells Jr.
  • Durham Veterans Administration Hospital and Departments of Medicine and Surgery Duke University Medical Center Durham, North Carolina, U.S.A.
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Publication Date:
17 December 2008 (online)

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Abstract

Medullary carcinoma of the thyroid (MCT) is reported to synthesize ACTH. This ACTH is believed to be responsible for the development of Cushing's syndrome in some patients with MCT. To determine the frequency of occurrence of adrenal cortical overactivity in patients with MCT, we measured plasma cortisol concentration and the urinary excretion of 17-hydroxycorticosteroids, 17-ketosteroids and urinary free cortisol in 22 patients with MCT and 7 patients with MCT plus pheochromocytomas. The patients with MCT and MCT plus pheochromocytoma had similar adrenal cortical function to age and sex matched normal subjects. We conclude that adrenal cortical function is usually normal in patients with MCT.

Key words

Medullary Carcinoma of the Thyroid - Pheochromocytoma - Adrenal Cortical Function - Urine Free Cortisol - Calcitonin - Cushing's Syndrome