Primary Adrenal Insufficiency Flashcards
What is Addison’s disease?
It is a condition caused by primary adrenal insufficiency, leading to decreased production of adrenal cortex hormones.
What hormones does the adrenal cortex produce?
Mineralocorticoids (e.g., aldosterone), glucocorticoids (e.g., cortisol), and androgens.
What stimulates the adrenal cortex to release hormones?
ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) from the anterior pituitary, which is stimulated by CRH (corticotropin-releasing hormone) from the hypothalamus.
What does aldosterone do in the body?
It increases sodium and water retention in the kidneys, raising blood pressure.
What are the effects of cortisol?
Immunosuppression, anti-inflammatory, increased blood pressure, weight gain, insulin resistance, and bone demineralization.
What role do adrenal androgens play?
They have a minor role in males, but in females, they contribute to libido and secondary sexual characteristics.
What is the most common cause of Addison’s disease?
Autoimmune destruction of the adrenal cortex, often with antibodies against 21-hydroxylase.
How does Addison’s disease affect electrolyte balance?
It can cause hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, and dehydration due to aldosterone deficiency.
Why does skin pigmentation increase in Addison’s disease?
Increased ACTH stimulates melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH), causing hyperpigmentation.
Name three clinical signs of Addison’s disease.
Weight loss, fatigue, postural hypotension, and generalized hyperpigmentation.
What is adrenal crisis?
A life-threatening emergency caused by sudden withdrawal or underdosing of glucocorticoids in Addison’s patients, leading to severe hormone deficiency.
How is Addison’s disease diagnosed?
Blood tests showing low cortisol, high ACTH, electrolyte imbalances, and positive adrenal autoantibodies; imaging may show adrenal damage.
What are some less common causes of Addison’s disease?
Infections (e.g., TB), adrenal hemorrhage, metastasis, infiltrative diseases, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and certain drugs.
What are the treatment options for Addison’s disease?
Hydrocortisone (glucocorticoid), fludrocortisone (mineralocorticoid), and androgen replacement (if needed).
What are essential aspects of Addison’s patient education?
Never miss medication, wear a medical alert bracelet, and double glucocorticoid dose during illness or stress to prevent adrenal crisis.
