[Production of ACTH and cortisol in patients with diffuse purulent peritonitis]

In 91 patients with generalized purulent peritonitis, peritoneal dialysis (in 44) and laparotomy with programmed lavage of the abdominal cavity (in 47) were performed. ACTH and cortisol content in the blood serum, was measured by means of the radioimmunologic method. In favourable course of the disease, hormonal production is preserved, in severe course, hormonal disbalance occurs.