Addison's disease is a rare disorder of the adrenal glands. In the case of Addision's, the glands do not produce enough of the hormones cortisol and aldosterone.
Addison's disease is the result of gradual damage to the adrenal cortex, the outer layer of the adrenal gland. This damage may be caused by:
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
Risk factors include:
Symptoms may include:
A severe complication of Addison's disease is the Addisonian or adrenal crisis .
Symptoms include:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be performed.
Tests may include:
Symptoms of Addison's disease can be controlled with medications. These drugs can replace the missing hormones. Medication needs to be taken for the rest of your life. They may be increased in times of stress.
Medications may include:
Immediate treatment of adrenal crisis includes:
Regular blood tests are needed to monitor your response to medication. Wear a medical alert bracelet in case of an emergency.
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Family Physicians
http://familydoctor.org/
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
http://www.niddk.nih.gov/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Addison Society
http://www.addisonsociety.ca/
Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index-eng.php/
References:
Addison's disease. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health/endo/pubs/addison/addison.htm . Accessed June 13, 2008.
Arlt W, Allolio B. Adrenal insufficiency. Lancet . 2003 May 31;361(9372):1881-1893.
Dorin RI, Qualls CR, Crapo LM. Diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency. Ann Int Med . 2003;138:3:194-214.
Salvatori R. Adrenal Insufficiency. JAMA . 2005;294:2481-2488.
Ten S, New M, Maclaren N. Clinical Review 130: Addison's disease. J Clin Endo Metabol . 2001;86:2909-2922.
Thomas Z, Fraser GL. An update on the diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency and the use of corticotherapy in critical illness. Ann Pharmather . 2007;41:1456-65.
Last reviewed November 2008 by David Juan, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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