A test of adrenal cortical function in dairy cows by ACTH administration.

We have investigated the effect of intravenous administration of 200 i.u. of ACTH on blood picture and blood sugar content of dairy cows, and have on the basis of our findings worked out a test of the adrenal cortical activity. The mean value of 2 samples collected before the injection is compared with the mean value of 2–3 samples 6–10 hours after ACTH administration. A normal adrenal cortical activity is indicated if at least three of the following criteria are fulfilled: 1. the eosinophils should decrease by more than 50 per cent, 2. the neutrophils should increase by more than 100 per cent, 3. the total white count should increase by more than 10 per cent, 4. the blood sugar content should increase by more than 5 per cent. At an adrenal cortical insufficiency, none of these criteria should be fulfilled.