[Adrenal function in chronic myeloid leukemia].

Adrenal function was studied in patients with chronic myeloid leukaemia treated in the past or presently with Busulphan. Adrenocortical function was determined by means of 24-hour profile of 11-hydroxysteroids (11-OHCS) in plasma, and urinary 24-hour 17 hydrocorticosteroids (17-OHCS) and 17-ketosteroids (17-KS). The adrenomedullary function was determined measuring VMA level in 24-hour urine. In most patients normal 24-hour 11-OHCS profiles and 24-levels of 17-OHCS, 17-KS and VMA. Only in some cases these levels were raised. This rise was observed more frequently in patients with blastic crisis of myeloid leukaemia which may indicate that the adrenal reserve was maintained in these patients. The investigations failed to show that the disease itself or Busulphan treatment impaired adrenal function. The possibility of a direct effect of Busulphan on melanin metabolism in the organism is discussed.