Adrenal Gland Flashcards
Primary adrenal failure (Hypoadrenocorticism)
Dependent on which zones destroyed
Glucocorticoids (cortisol) or mineralocorticoids insufficient
What causes primary adrenal failure
Spontaneous
Iatrogenic (mitotane, ketoconazole, trilostane- medication treating hyperadreno)
Secondary hypoadrenocorticism
Pituitary failure to secrete ACTH (isolated glucocort. insufficiency)
What causes secondary hypoadrenocorticism
Idiopathic (suppression of ACTH)
Neoplasia
Genetic (standard poodles, collies)
T/F: Hypoadrenocorticism is a life threatening condition with mineralcorticoid deficiency and requires immediate life saving intervention
TRUE
Maintain Na, K and water balance
CS of hypoadrenocorticism
Lacks of gluco: depression, lethargy, anorexia, vomiting
Lack of mineral: collapse and bradyarrhthmias
When is Hypoadrenocorticism glucocorticoid tx required
Iatrogenic or spontaneous secondary hypoadren.
Primary addison’s disease without mineral deficiency
↑ with stress, illness, sx, trauma and exercise
How is the glucocorticoid tx given?
↓ or discontinuation therapy
↓ to physiologic doses slowly
Over 1-3 weeks
Hypoadrenocorticism glucocorticoid tx
Dexamethasone
Prenisolone sodium succinate
Hydrocortisone
Glucocortidoid adverse effects
Exogenous admin → adrenal cortisol suppression and atrophy
When is hypoadrenocorticism mineralcorticoid tx needed?
Only if aldosterone deficient
Not recommended until Na concentration within reference ranges
Mineralcorticoid replacement for hypoadrenocorticism
Fludocortisone (PO QD)
Desoxycorticosterone (IM monthly)
Fludocortisone
Ease of dx/ adjusting dose
Daily therapy
Expensive
Side effects of Fludocortisone
PU/PD, polyphagia, hair loss, weight gain
↑ prevalence when combined with gluco
Desoxycorticosterone
Low adverse effects if used alone
Less common tx failures
Infrequent admin