How to learn from patients: Fuller Albright's exploration of adrenal function

Article Abstract:

Careful observation of patients and the use of a few simple laboratory tests helped a scientist describe the role hormones play in the functioning of the adrenal cortex. These observations led to discovering the cause and possible courses of treatment for Cushing's syndrome and adrenal hyperplasia. Both diseases are caused by overactive adrenal glands. A researcher reviewed the scientific processes by which Fuller Albright (1900-1969), a physician and scientist, discovered the role adrenal hormones play in the cause and treatment of Cushing's syndrome and adrenal hyperplasia. Albright tested patients with these two conditions for elevated urine levels of 17-ketosteroid. This hormone by-product indicated a malfunction of the adrenal cortex. He successfully treated patients with adrenal hyperplasia with cortisone.

Research, Adrenocortical hormones, Cushing syndrome, Adrenogenital syndrome, Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, Albright, Fuller

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Henry Harrower and the Turbulent Beginnings of Endocrinology

Article Abstract:

The author discusses the history of endocrinology, which, as was the case with other new fields in medicine, was denounced and derided when the first successes were published. In 1891, a patient with a severe form of thyroid disorder was restored to health with use of a thyroid extract. While this stimulated research in endocrinology, it also encouraged a flood of products made from crude organs. This was the emergence of organotherapy, and it was another 30 years before the series of assaults on organotherapy's credibilty began. Today's welter of herbal and hormonal products resembles that period of unproven enthusiasm.

History, Endocrinology

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On first looking into Cabot's Differential Diagnosis

Article Abstract:

An analysis of 'Cabot's Differential Diagnosis' reveals that physicians practicing at the beginning of the 20th Century were well-versed in bedside diagnosis. The book, written by Richard Clarke Cabot in the early 1900's, included 702 cases illustrating various symptoms, with a list of possible diagnoses and a section covering the final diagnosis and treatment. Syphilis, tuberculosis and emotional disorders were the most common conditions at that time. Emphasis was placed on obtaining an accurate history and physical examination since few laboratory tests existed at the time.

Analysis, Cabot's Differential Diagnosis (Book)

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