Abstract
We describe here a non-invasive, in-vivo tool to evaluate hepatic enzyme induction. We applied a specific RIA measuring the excretion of 6β-hydroxycortisol (6βOHF). 6βOHF is a polar, unconjugated metabolite of cortisol. 6βOHF is formed by the mixed function oxidase system in the liver and excreted by the kidney. Normal excretion of 6βOHF children is 0.21±.03 mg/m2/24hr., thus comprising approx. 10% of the 17-hydroxycorticoid (170H) excretion. Under baseline conditions there is a good correlation with 170H excretion (r=0.7, p<.01) and an even better correlation with free cortisol (FF) excretion (r=0.9, p<.001). 6βOHF/17OH and 6βOHF/FF ratios were calculated to correct for fluctuations in cortisol production. Mean values corrected for surface area (±SD) after treatment with known inducers (Phenobarbital, Diphenylhydantoin (DPH) are:
These data show that these drugs, singly or in combination, significantly induce 6β-hydroxylase, a microsomal enzyme (p<.001).
Conclusions: 6βOHF measurements provide a sensitive and convenient probe in the non-invasive evaluation of drug effects in children.
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Saenger, P., Forster, E., Kream, J. et al. 6β-Hydroxycortisol: A non-invasive indicator of enzym induction. Pediatr Res 15, 81 (1981). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198101000-00061
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198101000-00061
