[Current status of knowledge on the changes in the hypothalamo-hypophyseo-adrenal cortex system and their effects in...

The results of investigations into the changes in the function of the hypothalamus-hypophysis-renal gland system in chronic alcoholics are collated. The review shows that the activity of the hypothalamus-hypophysis-renal gland system is below-normal in at least some alcoholics, but due to conflicting results, it is not possible to decide whether the hypofunction of the adrenal gland is a primary of a secondary effect. The interrelationship between glucocorticosteroids and catecholamines is described and its importance for the adaptability of the organism is stressed. On the basis of the review it may seem advisable to introduce corticosteroid treatment into the therapeutic schema for delerious alcoholic patients and also to apply it on patients with the alcohol withdrawal syndrome if tests show that the function of their hypothalamus-hypophysis-renal gland systems is impaired.