[Polyglandular autoimmune syndrome]. / Syndrome polyglandulaire auto-immun.

Polyglandular autoimmune syndrome (PGA's) are defined as the coexistence of one or several primary endocrine gland autoimmune insufficiencies, possibly associated with other immunological pathologies. We present the case of a female patient suffering from a primary thyroid failure associated with Biermer anemia and hypophysitis with secondary adrenal insufficiency. We then describe the PGA's, focusing on their interest to the pediatrician, internist, and primary case physician. The three types of polyglandular syndromes, types I and II with adrenal insufficiency, and type III without it, are discussed. (Classification of Neufeld et al.).

Coupling between the intracellular pH and the active transport of sodium in an epithelial cell line from Xenopus laevis.

1. The relationship between the rate of active Na+ transport and intracellular pH (pHi, measured as the BCECF fluorescence) was studied in A6 monolayers in the presence of CO2. The total buffering power (beta total) and its components (beta i and beta CO2) were assessed at various pHi. 2. The activity of Na+/H+ and Cl-/HCO3- exchangers were expressed in A6 cells; both antiports were found to participate in pHi homeostasis under standard conditions. 3. Alterations in the rate of Na+ transport induced variations in pHi. 4. Na+ transport rate was a hyperbolic function of external Na+ concentration. The curve was shifted by changing pHi: a mixed inhibition of Na+ transport by pHi was found. 5. The pHi appears as a possible mediator coupling the rate of Na+ transport across the apical and the basolateral membrane in tight epithelia.