Effect of Hypercapnic Acidosis and of Hypoxia on Adrenal Catecholamine Output of the Spinal Dog. ∗

Conclusion

In 8 spinal dogs adrenal blood flow and adrenal catecholamine output (ACO) were measured. Hypoxia (PaO₂ 36 mm Hg) without acidosis did not change significantly ACO, while hypercapnic acidosis (PaCO₂ 127, pH 6.93) produced a significant increase in ACO. These findings confirm previous observations indicating that acidosis more than hypoxia stimulates catecholamine release.