Addison's disease Flashcards
What is Addison’s disease?
Is a rare disorder of the adrenal glands. Adrenal gland is damaged in Addison’s disease and so does not produce enough cortisol or aldosterone. Also known as primary adrenal insufficiency or hypoadrenalism.
What causes Addison’s disease?
70-90% caused by autoimmune disease - immune system attacks and destroys cells of adrenal glands in error
Can also be caused by infection (such as TB or HIV) damaging adrenal glands.
Can also be because someone has had their adrenal glands removed.
What is secondary adrenal insufficiency?
When the pituitary gland fails to stimulate adrenal glands, cortisol production is also reduced.
Symptoms related to low adrenaline levels in body caused by Addison’s disease
- overwhelming exhaustion
- weakness
-weight loss - low blood pressure
- dizziness on standing
- poor appetite
- difficulty concentrating
Other symptoms related to Addison’s disease
- deepening skin pigmentation
-nausea and vomiting - muscle weakness with cramps
- salt cravings
- headaches
- stomach pains
What are the two treatments for Addison’s disease?
Glucocorticoid (cortisol) replacement and mineralocorticoid replacement
Glucocorticoid replacement
hydrocortisone usually used (dexamethasone and prednisolone can be used). Better control is obtained if treamtnet mimics natural diurnal cycle of glucocorticoid release (larger doses in morning, smaller doses in day)
mineralocorticoid replacement
fludrocortisone is usually used - taken in morning. If patient is ill, may need to increase dose of steroids - usually have treatment plan. Have to carry steroid treatment card.
What is an adrenal crisis?
A life-threatening situation which required immediate medical treatment with an emergency injection of hydrocortisone.
Correction of adrenal crisis
hydrocortisone sodium succinate or hydrocortisone sodium phosphate suitable. Hydrocortisone acetate is long-acting and does not work quickly enough to treat adrenal crisis effectively.
