[ACTH, beta-endorphin and lipotropins: physiopathological studies in man (author's transl)]

ACTH and lipotropins (beta- and gamma-LPH) are synthesized from a common precursor by the pituitary corticotropic cell. We have measured LPH plasma levels under physiological and pathological conditions and we have compared them with ACTH plasma levels in the same circumstances. Spontaneous variations (nycthemeral rhythm) in LPH, ACTH and cortisol plasma levels were parallel, while responses to Dexamethasone freination test and stress (Insulin induced hypoglycemia) or more specific stimulation (Metopirone, lysine-vasopressin) were parallel and superimposable. LPH levels were always higher than ACTH levels in two pathological circumstances: chronic renal failure and Cushing's syndromes with ectopic ACTH producing tumors. The determination of both ACTH and LPH levels assists the diagnosis of corticotropic insufficiency and etiologic investigation of Cushing's syndrome, after hypercorticolism had been established. Although unable to confirm the presence of corticotropic adenoma in patients with Cushing's disease, or the predict effectiveness of pituitary surgery, these determination bring good arguments for treated Cushing's diseases follow up.