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Steroid excretion in anorexia nervosa patients
Acta Endocrinologica
|January 1, 1979
Summary
Anorexia nervosa patients show reduced urinary steroid excretion, including tetrahydrocortisone (THE) and androsterone (A). Steroid metabolite ratios were also significantly decreased, indicating metabolic abnormalities in anorexia nervosa.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Research
- Clinical Biochemistry
Background:
- Anorexia nervosa (A.N.) is a complex eating disorder with significant metabolic implications.
- Previous research suggests potential alterations in steroid hormone metabolism in A.N. patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate urinary steroid excretion patterns in patients with anorexia nervosa.
- To assess the impact of anorexia nervosa on specific steroid metabolite levels and ratios.
- To evaluate the utility of capillary gas chromatography in studying these metabolic abnormalities.
Main Methods:
- Urinary steroid excretion was measured in seven anorexia nervosa patients.
- Steroid metabolite ratios, including THE/THF, A/Ae, and 5alpha-THF/THF, were calculated.
- Oral metyrapone tests were performed on six A.N. patients to assess adrenal response.
Main Results:
- Patients exhibited reduced urinary excretion of tetrahydrocortisone (THE), androsterone (A), and 5alpha-tetrahydrocortisol (5alpha-THF).
- Significantly reduced ratios of THE/THF, A/Ae, and 5alpha-THF/THF were observed.
- Metyrapone tests revealed quantitatively normal but delayed urinary 3alpha,17alpha,21-trihydroxy-5beta-pregnan-20-one (THS) response.
Conclusions:
- Anorexia nervosa is associated with distinct alterations in urinary steroid metabolism.
- Capillary gas chromatography is a valuable tool for identifying these metabolic abnormalities in A.N.
- Further research is warranted to understand the clinical significance of these steroid changes in anorexia nervosa.