Certain data relating to the mechanism of secretion and action of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) and of cortisone in experimental inflammatory conditions

Abstract

The course of the inflammatory process following scalding of one ear of rabbits, with and without previous deafferentation and desympathization of the ear, and with and without ACTH treatment, has been studied. The response of the adrenocorticotrophic function of the hypophysis proceeds biphasically, being triggered off by reflex action in the first phase, and by humoral action in the second. The temperature of the inflamed area is raised during ACTH therapy, while the swelling and the extent of the necrotic area are diminished and the incidence of suppuration is greatly reduced. With previous severance of sympathetic connections, ACTH treatment is also associated with higher temperature of the scalded region, edema is reduced, and the duration of the inflammatory process greatly shortened. The amount of necrosis is not, however, decreased. Rabbits which have recovered from a minor burn are subsequently more resistant to major thermal injuries. The hypophysialcorticoadrenal system is actively involved in such raising of resistivity to thermal injury.