adrenal glands Flashcards
what is the role of glucocorticosteroids
maintain blood pressure and cardiovascular function
essential for regulation of carbohydrate and protein metabolism
what do glucocorticosteroids stimulate
synthesis of glycogen in the liver
breakdown of protein
breakdown of lipid
conversion of protein and fat products into carbohydrates
what is cushings syndrome
Occurs when the body’s tissues are exposed to excessive levels of cortisol for long periods of time.
what are the symtpoms of cushings syndrome
buffalo hump
muscle weakness, spindly arms and legs
weight gain (redistribution of fat, with central obesity)
skin blushing and flushing
poor wound healing
what is acth dependent cushing disease
ACTH dependent (pituitary tumour or ectopic tumour), ACTH levels extremely high
what is non acth dependent cushing syndrome
ACTH level extremely low
what is the diagnsotic test for cushings syndrome
Dexamethazone (cortisol agonist) suppression test
what is cushings disease
Cushing’s disease if pituitary tumour ACTH dependent.
what is cushings syndrome
any other clinical cases
how would dexamethasone affect a cushing syndromes patient
patients are non suppressible
what is cushings disease
(pituitatry tumour) are responsive to very high dose (partial decrease).
what is addisons disease
Severe or total deficiency of the adrenal cortex, usually caused by a destruction of the gland.
what is classical addisons disease
total or near total destruction of both adrenal glands (primary insufficiency;
cause: autoimmune disease,
can be also be related to tuberculosis).
what is secondary adrenal insufficiency
Pituitary alteration of secretion of ACTH, aldosterone secretion may remain adequate
what are the symptoms of addisons
Fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea weight loss
Low blood pressure, Muscle weakness
Craving for salty foods
