Adrenal Disorders Flashcards
What is Addison’s disease?
An autoimmune disease of the adrenal cortex
What are the symptoms of Addison’s disease?
Unexplained hypoglycaemia, hypotension, dehydration, weight loss, depression
What tests should be done if Addison’s is suspected?
FBC, U&E, glucose Random cortisol (<500nmol/l), synacthen test
What treatment should be given in Addison’s?
Replacement glucocorticoid (hydrocortisone, prednisolone, dexamethasone)
Replacement Mineralcorticoid (Fludrocortisone)
What are the two causes of primary hyperaldosteronism?
Unilateral adenoma, bilateral hyperplasia
What are the three functions of cortisol?
Tissue breakdown, sodium retention, insulin antagonism
Name some symptoms of Cushings sydrome?
Weakness of skin, muscle and bone, hypertension/heart failure, DM, Central obesity, purple striae, plethoric faces, oedema
What causes cushings syndrome?
Pituitary tumour (Cushing’s disease), Ectopic ACTH secretion (lung carcinoid), Adrenal tumour
How do you test for Cushings?
24hr urinary free cortisol, overnight dexamethasone suppression test
What are the symptoms of a phaeochromocytoma?
Hypertension, paroxysmal attacks (headache, sweating, palpitations, tremor, anxiety, fear)
What causes congenital adrenal hyperplasia?
21-hydroxylase deficiency
