Serum ACTH and Cortisol Level is Associated with the Acute Gastrointestinal Injury Grade in ICU Patients

Abstract

Background

The relationship between acute gastrointestinal symptoms and cortisol or adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) levels has rarely been reported. We hypothesized that the elevation of serum cortisol or ACTH levels may be correlated with the severity of the acute gastrointestinal injury grade (AGI).

Methods

This study was an observational study. All patients were admitted to the ICU between 2019.1.1 and 2020.1.1.. Serum ACTH and cortisol levels and clinical data were collected from the electronic medication records. The highest AGI grade during the ICU stay was the major endpoint to observe. The patient was treated in a standard procedure in the ICU.

Results

A total of 235 patients were included in our study, 132 of whom developed AGI. In univariate regression, cortisol level was found to be a risk factor for 28-day mortality. Serum cortisol and ACTH levels correlated with APACHE II, AGI grade, PCT, and CRP levels. Spearman analysis and partial correlation analysis indicated that cortisol and ACTH levels were correlated with AGI grade.

Conclusion

The ACTH and cortisol levels were positively correlated with the higher severity of AGI grade. The cortisol level may be a useful way to access the GI injury.

Keywords:

• acute gastrointestinal injury
• cortisol
• adrenocorticotropic hormone

View correction statement:

Serum ACTH and Cortisol Level is Associated with the Acute Gastrointestinal Injury Grade in ICU Patients [Erratum]

Data Sharing Statement

The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author, Ming Zhong, upon reasonable request.

Ethics Approval and Consent to Participate

The study protocol was approved by the Ruijin Hospital Ethics Committee of Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, China. Formal informed consent was obtained from the patients or their next of kin.

Consent for Publication

Consent for publication was obtained from all the authors.

Acknowledgments

The study was conducted thanks to the helpful contributions of all ICU staff and the understanding and love of all the family members.

Disclosure

The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

Additional information

Funding

There is no funding to report.