Chapter 45.3, Problem 3CC

Summary Introduction

To explain: Why local cortisone injection in an inflamed joint is preferred over the administration of pill.

Concept introduction:

The adrenal cortex acts through the endocrine system under the stressful conditions such as reduced level of blood sugar, volume, and pressure. It stimulates the hypothalamus to secrete the releasing hormone. Then, the releasing hormone stimulates the secretion of the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) from the anterior pituitary. From the pituitary, ACTH reaches the adrenal cortex through blood circulation and stimulates corticosteroids secretion. Two types of corticosteroids are found in humans namely glucocorticoids (cortisol) and mineralocorticoids. Glucocorticoids or cortisol activates glucose synthesis from protein and are also involved in the breakdown of proteins into amino acids in muscles and influence the immune system.