[Decreased activity of 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in patients with Cushing's syndrome].

BACKGROUND

To study 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity in Cushing's syndrome.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

Measurements of free cortisol, cortisone, tetrahydrocortisol and tetrahydrocortisone in 24 h urine samples of patients with Cushing's syndrome and controls.

RESULTS

The cortisol to cortisone and tetrahydrocortisol to tetrahydrocortisone relationship was significant (in controls, r = 0.70; p < 0.0001, and r = 0.75; p < 0.0001) respectively, but it was not in patients with Cushing's syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity is decreased in patients with Cushing's syndrome.