adrenal glands not producing enough cortisol

It is not known exactly why this occurs, but it is believed to be related to an autoimmune response that results in the slow destruction of adrenal tissue. Idiopathic adrenal atrophy is the most common cause of primary adrenal insufficiency. Addison disease, or primary adrenal insufficiency, occurs rarely, but when it occurs, there is loss of at least 90% of the adrenal cortex. Complications include bone loss, hypothyroidism, ischemic heart disease, acute adrenal insufficiency, and shock.Īdrenal insufficiency can be primary or secondary. The major cause of illness or death for people with adrenal insufficiency is a delay in making the diagnosis, or failure to begin appropriate therapy with glucocorticoids and/or mineralocorticoids. Androgen deficiency leads to the loss of secondary sex characteristics. Aldosterone deficiency causes urinary loss of sodium, chloride, and water, resulting in dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Cortisol deficiency causes altered metabolism, decreased stress tolerance, and emotional lability.

Adrenal insufficiency is characterized by the decreased production of cortisol, aldosterone, and androgen. The principal mineralocorticoid, aldosterone, is important for regulating sodium levels. The principal glucocorticoid, cortisol, helps regulate blood pressure, metabolism, anti-inflammatory response, and emotional behavior. The medulla, the inner portion of the adrenal gland, is responsible for the secretion of the catecholamines epinephrine and norepinephrine the cortex, or outer portion, is responsible for the secretion of glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and androgen. Adrenal insufficiency occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce adequate amounts of hormones to support the body’s function.

Adrenal glands not producing enough cortisol