Adrenal size and function after irradiation with131I-6β-iodocholesterol in rabbits

Administration of high doses of131I-6β-iodocholesterol to rabbits is followed by marked size reduction of the adrenal glands with concomitant changes of the histological structure and with a decrease of serum cortisol. Stimulation of131I-6β-iodocholesterol uptake into the adrenals by additional administration of ACTH had only a minor additional effect on adrenal weight. However, with further accumulation of labeled cholesterol in the adrenals the radioactivity was reduced in blood, urine, and the ovaries.