[Adrenal scintigraphy using 131 I-19-iodocholesterol. Value in the exploration of Cushing's syndrome]

On the basis of 7 cases representing the essential types of aetiology of Cushing's syndrome, it is possible to define the value, limitations and role of adrenal scintigraphy using 131I-19-iodocholesterol in the diagnostic investigation of hypercortisolism. The essential value of the investigation is morphological rather than functional drome. Thus adrenal scintigraphy has the same role in diagnostic investigation as various radiological procedures such as pneumoperitoneum and angiography. The latter, however, are technically difficult and fraught with risk, in contrast to the isotopic examination. The principle limitations of the method are not dosimetric but lie in the relative difficulty of interpretation of the documents obtained.