Endocrinology Flashcards
What are the features of adrenal insufficiency
Hypoglycaemia: lack of cortisol means that glucose can’t be stored in liver as glycogen limiting body’s ability to release glucose during a starving period.
Increase insulin sensitivity: lack of cortisol means sensitivity increases so it’s easier to lower glucose. Decreased glucogenesis this is when liver produces glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, such as amino acids and glycerol. Without sufficient cortisol, gluconeogenesis is impaired, leading to lower glucose production.
Hypercalcemia: increased GI absorption because cortisol normally inhibits calcium absorption.
Decreased renal secretion of calcium. Bone reabsorption, Bone Resorption: In Addison’s disease, chronic inflammation and other stressors can increase the release of calcium from bones. Although less common, prolonged cortisol deficiency can lead to secondary hyperparathyroidism, where the parathyroid glands release more parathyroid hormone (PTH) to compensate for low cortisol, leading to increased bone resorption and elevated blood calcium levels.
