Effects of hypoxia and hypercapnia on non-esterified free fatty acid and cortisol levels.

In the dog, FFA (free fatty acid) and cortisol levels in arterial blood plasma are lowered by anesthesia. Induced hypercapnia does not alter the cortisol levels but increases FFA levels. Hypoxia tends to raise the FFA levels. Possible causes of modifications in the FFA and cortisol levels are briefly discussed.