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Based on clinical observations, some acute viral infections produce alterations simulating those of hyperadrenocorticism (5, 7, 12, 14).Few laboratory data are available concerning the adrenocortical function during acute viral infections. In measles, estimations of the urinary 17-OHCS were done in a small number of cases and the results were contradictory (1, 16). Plasma glucocorticoids were not studied in uncomplicated cases of chicken pox. Cortisol production rates were estimated in a very few cases of chicken pox and rubella encephalopathy (21). Some of these cases showed a rise in the cortisol production rate, while in other cases this was within normal limits.There are no data available about adrenocortical function during mumps, while minimal work has been done on adrenocortical function in polio myelitis in adults (8). Moreover, both the adrenocortical reserve and the pituitary ACTH capacity were not studied in any of the acute viral infections.The aim of the present work is: (1) To study the hypothalamic-pi tui tary-adrenal system during certain acute viral infections. (2) From these studies information may be obtained as regards the need for corticosteroid therapy in these viral infections. MATERIAL AND METHODSThe following groups of infants and children were investigated. Acta Pediat Scand 62

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