The content of growth hormone and cortisol during an insulin test in participants in the liquidation of the Chernobyl accident

Abstract

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system was studied in 25 participants in the aftermath of the Chernobyl accident (liquidators) using a test with insulin and determining the secretion of growth hormone (STH) and cortisol during the test. In all liquidators, insulin administration caused a significant decrease in blood sugar. Baseline cortisol and STH levels were within normal limits. During the test, the examined individuals did not show a significant increase in the level of cortisol. 94% of the liquidators received a release of STH in response to hypoglycemia, but this reaction was significantly less pronounced than in individuals in the control group. Preliminary data indicate the presence of insufficient secretion of GH and the absence of a significant increase in cortisol levels. Thus, the liquidators have violations of the hypothalamic-pituitary system, indicating a decrease in the adaptive capacity of the body.