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Haemodynamic response to ACTH administration in essential hypertension
Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology & Physiology
|September 1, 1981
Summary
Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) administration significantly increased blood pressure, plasma volume, and cardiac output in patients with essential hypertension. These hemodynamic changes were not observed in patients with Addison's disease.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Hypertension Research
Background:
- Essential hypertension is a common condition with complex pathophysiology.
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) plays a role in regulating adrenal function and blood pressure.
- Understanding the hemodynamic effects of ACTH is crucial for managing hypertensive disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the hemodynamic and volume responses to ACTH administration in patients with mild, untreated essential hypertension.
- To compare these responses with those in patients with Addison's disease on steroid replacement therapy.
- To elucidate the physiological mechanisms underlying ACTH-induced hypertension.
Main Methods:
- Six patients with mild essential hypertension and two with Addison's disease were studied.
- Daily measurements of blood pressure, heart rate, and weight were recorded.
- Plasma volume (using 125I-HSA) and cardiac output (thermo-dilution) were measured before and during ACTH treatment.
Main Results:
- In hypertensive subjects, mean arterial pressure increased significantly (P < 0.02) with ACTH administration.
- Plasma volume and cardiac index also showed significant increases.
- No significant hemodynamic changes were observed in patients with Addison's disease.
Conclusions:
- ACTH administration induces significant hemodynamic alterations in patients with essential hypertension.
- These effects include increased blood pressure, plasma volume, and cardiac output.
- The findings suggest that ACTH-induced hypertension in humans shares similarities with experimental models.