ENDOCRINE STUDIES IN 8 PATIENTS WITH DYSTROPHIA MYOTONICA

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Abstract
From these studies there was no evidence that this is a disease of endocrine etiology. Data showed that the basic pathologic process of tissue atrophy may involve certain glandular structures. The BMR was often markedly reduced and the mean value for the group was -23% ([plus or minus] 9). However, the serum cholesterol, the serum protein-bound iodine, and the thyroidal uptake of radio-active iodine were all consistently normal. The hypometabolism of this disease is therefore extrathyroidal in origin and is most likely related to loss of active muscle tissue. The response of adrenal cortex and the function of parathyroid glands were normal. Testicular atrophy was common and the histologic picture was one of tabular atrophy and degeneration with preservation of normal appearing Leydig cells. Urine excretion of 17-KS was often reduced but urinary excretion of follicle stimulating hormone was normal. There were no marked hormonal imbalances attributable to hypogonadism. Diabetes mellitus was discovered in 3 patients.

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