PCP Expansion - Respiratory (Adrenal Crisis)

Question 1

Define adrenal insufficiency

Answer 1

Adrenal insufficiency is an endocrine disorder caused by lack of cortisol

Question 2

Define Cortisol

Answer 2

Cortisol is the body’s primary stress response hormone

Question 3

Define adrenal glands

Answer 3

The adrenal glands are small organs located on top of each kidney. They produce hormones, including cortisol and aldosterone, which are essential for maintaining normal body functions

Question 4

Define the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis

Answer 4

The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, as it is a crucial neuroendocrine system in the body that responds to stress and maintains balance.

Question 5

What are the three structures in the HPA Axis

Answer 5

1. Hypothalamus
2. Pituitary gland
3. Adrenal gland

Question 6

What is the role of the hypothalamus in the HPA Axis?

Answer 6

In response to stimuli, such as stress, the hypothalamus releases a hormone called corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). CRH signals the pituitary gland

Question 7

What is the role of the pituitary gland in the HPA Axis?

Answer 7

The pituitary gland receives signals form the hypothalamus and releases a hormone called adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)

Question 8

What is the role of the adrenal glands in the HPA Axis?

Answer 8

The adrenal glands respond to ACTH released from the pituitary gland by producing cortisol and aldosterone

a) Cortisol: the body’s natural stress hormone which helps regulate metabolism, immune system, and blood glucose levels

b) Aldosterone: Regulates the body’s balance of salt and water to maintain blood pressure and electrolyte levels. It is part of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone system (RAAS)

Question 9

What are three types of adrenal insufficiency?

Answer 9

1. Primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease)
2. Secondary adrenal insufficiency
3. Tertiary adrenal insufficiency

Question 9

Describe primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease)

Answer 9

This occurs when the adrenal glands themselves are damaged or not functioning correctly. It can be due to autoimmune diseases, infections, or other medical conditions affecting the glands

Question 10

What is the most common cause of secondary adrenal insufficiency?

Answer 10

The most common cause of secondary adrenal insufficiency is prolonged administration of corticosteroids. After prolonged use (>3 weeks) of systemic glucocorticoids, the HPA axis may be suppressed leading to lower or no cortisol secretion. This is due to the negative feedback loop, wherein large amounts of cortisol (represented by exogenous corticosteroids) will suppress CRH and ACTH release

Question 10

Describe secondary adrenal insufficiency

Answer 10

This type is caused by a problem with the pituitary gland in the brain. If there’s a lack of ACTH produced by the pituitary gland, the adrenals won’t produce enough cortisol.

Question 11

What are Glucocorticoids used in?

Answer 11

Glucocorticoids are used in many chronic medical conditions such as autoimmune disorders, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, and cancer

Question 12

List several common Glucocorticoids are used in many chronic medical conditions such as autoimmune disorders, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, and cancer

Question 13

Describe