[Cortisol metabolism in paroxysmol disorders of cardiac rhythm]

In 37 patients with paroxysmal disorders of the cardiac rhythm cortisol metabolism was studied. Investigations showed an increased excretion of 17-OCS at the time of paroxysmal arrhythmia. It was found to be the highest in patients without any organic lesions of the myocardium and also in cases of microfocal infarctions. The cortisol excretion proved greatest in the hours of vasovagal attacks. The latter were attended by the most pronounced disorders of the cortisol metabolism, particularly significant in patients with ischemic heart disease accompanied by congestive failure of circulation.