Adrenocortical Function and Dysfunction Flashcards
What determines which steroids a cell will produce?
The enzymes its possesses and are activated
What is POMC?
A large peptide precursor for a number of hormones eg ACTH - it is cleaved into those hormones post translation
Where is adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) produced?
The ant. pituitary
What are symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome?
Excess gluconeogenesis > hyperglycemia
Muscle protein breakdown
Paradoxical fat deposits in trunk and face due to increase appetite
Mineralocortocoid action of excess glucocorticoid (mimic aldoesterone) > moon face
Osteoporosis
Mood elevation then depression, difficult learning and memory
What does the zona glomerulosa produce?
Mineralocorticoids
In which part of the adrenal cortex are glucocorticoids produced?
The zona fasciculata
What effect does cortisol have on bones?
Breakdown - due to decrease Ca absorption and increase excretion
Increase activation of osteoclasts
Decrease osteoblast proliferation
What is the pathogenesis of Addison’s?
Adrenal cortex destruction > hyposecretion of its hormones
Which part of the adrenal gland is a true endocrine gland?
Adrenal cortex
What are the clinical implications of the similarity in structure of cortisol and aldosterone?
When you get one in excess, it can cause effects that mimic that of the other
What is Conn’s syndrome?
Primary hyperaldosteronism
What is androgenital syndrome?
Excess androgen and estrogen
What are the catacholamines?
Adrenaline
Noradrenaline
Dopamine
What does CRH have to do with pregnancy?
It signals the onset of labour
What must you do when taking people off exogenous cortisol?
Taper the dose down to allow ACTH secretion to return
