Adrenal

Question 1

3 types of corticoids the adrenal gland secretes (secreted by the cortex)

Answer 1

• mineralocorticoids (aldosterone)
• glucocorticoids (hydrocortisone) - stress hormone
• Gonadocorticoids (estrogen, testosterone)

Question 2

Glucocorticoids - Cortisol/hydrocortisone

Answer 2

• hypothalamus releases corticotropin releasing factors -> pituitary -> Adrenocorticotropic hormone -> secreted by the adrenal cortex
• secretion regulated by negative feedback mechanism
• levels vary according to circadian rhythm
• levels change during stress and inflammation (levels rise to suppress inflammation)
• increase blood glucose levels
• increase catabolism of proteins and lipids
• increase sensitivity of vascular smooth muscle to NE and ANG II which causes increased CVS stimulation - increased BP and HR
• increases the breakdown fo bony matrix
• promotes bronchodilation

Question 3

Most significant effect of long-term corticosteroid use

Answer 3

• cushings disease
  Weight gain, especially in your face and abdomen.
  Fatty deposits between your shoulder blades.
  Wide, purple stretch marks on your abdomen (belly).
  Muscle weakness in your upper arms and thighs.
  High blood sugar, which often turns into Type 2 diabetes.
  High blood pressure (hypertension).
  Excessive hair growth (hirsutism) in people assigned female at birth.
  Weak bones (osteoporosis) and fractures.

Question 4

Common side-effects of corticosteroid therapy

Answer 4

• suppression of immune system and inflammatory response
• peptic ulcers
• behavioural changes
• increased risk of glaucoma
• metabolic changes (hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, hypocalcemia, hypokalemia, hypernatremia)

Question 5

Addisons Disease

Answer 5

- not enough cortisol or aldosterone. S&S
Abdominal pain
Abnormal menstrual periods
Craving for salty food
Dehydration
Depression
Diarrhea
Irritability
Lightheadedness or dizziness when standing up
Loss of appetite
Low blood glucose
Low blood pressure
Muscle weakness
Nausea
Patches of dark skin, especially around scars, skin folds, and joints
Sensitivity to cold
Unexplained weight loss
Vomiting
Worsening fatigue (extreme tiredness)

Question 6

3 methods of minimizing the averse effects of non-endogenous corticosteroids

Answer 6

1. to use the lowest dose possible
2. apply it topically and locally (to avoid having to take it systemically)
3. alternate day dosing