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In adrenal insufficiency, there is a deficiency in cortisol production which may be accompanied by a deficiency in aldosterone production (predominantly in primary adrenal insufficiency). [2] [3] Depending on the cause and type of adrenal insufficiency, the mechanism of the disease differs. Generally, the symptoms manifest through the systemic ...
Addison's disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, [4] is a rare long-term endocrine disorder characterized by inadequate production of the steroid hormones cortisol and aldosterone by the two outer layers of the cells of the adrenal glands (adrenal cortex), causing adrenal insufficiency.
Adrenal crisis is a serious, life-threatening complication of adrenal insufficiency. Hypotension , or hypovolemic shock , is the main symptom of adrenal crisis, other indications and symptoms include weakness , anorexia , nausea , vomiting, fever, fatigue , abnormal electrolytes , confusion , and coma. [ 19 ]
Tumors on the pituitary gland or cancer metastasis can also cause adrenal insufficiency. [10] Exogenous steroid use is the most frequent cause of adrenal insufficiency, and those who use steroids also run the risk of experiencing an adrenal crisis. Adrenal crisis can be triggered by abrupt, and frequently unintentional, steroid withdrawal.
It can also cause urinary sodium wasting, leading to volume depletion and hypotension. [ citation needed ] When adrenal insufficiency develops rapidly, the amount of Na+ lost from the extracellular fluid exceeds the amount excreted in the urine, indicating that Na+ also must be entering cells.
Pale skin may contribute to patients' diminished appearance and aid in differentiating between primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency. Secondary adrenal insufficiency is not associated with a lack of aldosterone, so symptoms and signs of mineralocorticoid deficiency, such as salt craving, postural hypotension, and electrolyte abnormalities ...
The adrenal glands produce important hormones that have specific roles in the homeostasis of the body, which are regulated by other glands. These hormones include aldosterone, a mineralocorticoid that regulates the amount of salt in tissue and body fluids, cortisol, a glucocorticoid that regulates metabolism and usage of macronutrients in the body, and sex hormones, such as androgens and ...
The best known feature that suggests a possible underlying adrenal insufficiency is low blood pressure despite resuscitation with intravenous fluids, requiring vasopressor drugs. [4] These patients typically display tachycardia and other signs of hyperdynamic shock. [6]