Diurnal Variation in Adrenal Cortical Function

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Abstract
Many functions In man exhibit significant clrcadlan variation. Secretion of cortisol by the adrenal cortex varies at different times of the day. It Is maximal during the latter hours of sleep and minimal In the late evening. Plasma concentrations of cortisol and urinary excretion of cortisol and Its metabolites follow a similar pattern. Control of the production of cortisol, In most Instances, Is regulated so that plasma glucocorticold levels are appropriate for a given time of the day or for an appropriate stress. The efferent loop of this system Involves the hypothalamus, cortlcotropin releasing factor, ACTH, and cortisol production by the adrenal cortex. The afferent limb of this system Is less well understood but appears to be related to the sleep and activity pattern of the Individual. Aldosterone production probably varies In response to changes In posture. Knowledge of variation In adrenocortlcal secretion during the day is needed for proper testing of adrenal function.

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