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Addison's Disease

Adrenal Insufficiency · Hypocortisolism · Primary Adrenal Insufficiency

The Facts

Addison's disease, also know as primary adrenal insufficiency, is a rare condition that affects the body's hormonal activity. It is named after Dr. Thomas Addison, who discovered it in 1849.

Addison's disease occurs when the body is not able to make enough of the hormones cortisol and/or aldosterone. Each hormone works differently within the body. If either hormone is not present in sufficient amounts, there is an effect on many body systems. Blood pressure, the immune system, metabolism, sexual function, and insulin levels are just some of the body's duties that these hormones affect on a daily basis.

Causes

Addison's disease, also know as primary adrenal insufficiency, is caused by a problem within the adrenal glands themselves. Usually, this occurs when the immune system attacks the adrenal glands. Tuberculosis infection can also damage the adrenal glands.

A similar condition called secondary adrenal insufficiency occurs when the pituitary gland does not make enough adrenocorticotropin (ACTH), a hormone that stimulates the adrenal glands. This may be caused by pituitary tumors, brain surgery, reduced blood flow to the brain, or brain infections. It can also be caused by suddenly stopping corticosteroid medications after taking them for a prolonged period of time. In this case, the problem is usually temporary.

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Author: MediResource Clinical Team
Reviewer: MediResource Clinical Team
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