Utilizing an in vivo isotope dilution technique based on 48 hr urine pools, cortisol production rates (CPRs) and urinary 17-hydroxycorticosteroids (17-OHCS) were estimated in 16 infants and children with hypothyroidism, and in 9 children and young adults with hyperthyroidism. The results were compared statistically with those obtained in 20 normal infants, children and young adults previously reported. Hypothyroid patients between the ages of 5 and 17 yr had a decrease in both CPR and 17-OHCS. However, 3 athyreotic cretins, less than 3 months old, and a mildly hypothyroid older infant had normal CPRs. In the hypothyroid patients there appeared to be a correlation between the duration and degree of hypothyroidism and the degree of depression of the CPR. Hyperthyroidism in the age group 5–17 yr induced a marked increase in CPR in only a few patients, while increasing the urinary 17-OHCS to a greater extent and with greater regularity.
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Kenny et al. (1967) studied this question.