Disorders Of Adrenal Cortex Flashcards
What may Cushing’s syndrome caused by?
Increased activity of the adrenal cortex due to a tumour (adenoma)
Disorders in secretion of ACTH caused by pituitary adenoma (Cushing’s disease) or ectopic secretion of ACTH
Why may Addison’s disease occur?
Autoimmune destruction of the adrenal cortex reduces corticoids and mineralocorticoids
Disorders in pituitary or hypothalamus leading to decreases secretion of ACTH and CRF - only affects glucocorticoids
What are the symptoms of excess cortisol secretion?
Hyperglycaemia, polyuria, polydipsia
Wasting of proximal muscles - thin arms and legs and muscle weakness
Deposition of fat in abdomen, neck and face - moon face
Purple striae of lower abdomen
Easy bruising and thinning of skin
Increased susceptibility to bacterial infections and acne
Osteoporosis causing back pain and collapse of ribs
Hypertension due to sodium and potassium
What are the effects of under secretion of cortisol?
Tiredness Extreme muscle weakness Anorexia Vague abdominal pain Weightloss Dizziness Dehydration Increased pigmentation due to more ACTH Hypotension Hypoglycaemic episodes
What are the symptoms of an Addisonian crisis?
Nausea Vomiting Extreme dehydration Hypotension Confusion Fever Coma
How can an Addisonion crisis be treated?
Intra-venous cortisol Fluid replacement (dextrose in normal saline)
