4 Questions
What is the term for decreased production of adrenocortical hormones?
Primary hypoadrenalism
Which type of primary hypoadrenalism is characterized by adrenal crisis?
Primary acute hypoadrenalism
What are the clinical manifestations of adrenal crisis?
Hypoglycemia, increased sensitivity to insulin, vomiting
What causes Waterhouse Friderichsen syndrome?
Severe meningococcal septicemia
Study Notes
- Adrenocortical hypofunction, also known as hypoadrenalism, is a condition characterized by decreased production of adrenocortical hormones.
- There are three types: primary, secondary, and tertiary.
- Primary hypoadrenalism can be further divided into two types: acute and chronic.
- Primary acute hypoadrenalism (adrenal crisis) is caused by destruction of both adrenal cortices, leading to sudden loss of cortisol. It is clinically manifested by hypoglycemia, increased insulin sensitivity, and vomiting, and may also be associated with deficiency of aldosterone leading to hyponatremia, hypovolemia, hypotension, hyperkalemia, and metabolic acidosis.
- Primary acute hypoadrenalism is commonly caused by infections, specifically severe meningococcal sepsis, which can cause Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome, characterized by hemorrhagic necrosis of the adrenal cortex (adrenal apoplexy).
Test your knowledge on adrenocortical insufficiency with this quiz. Learn about the three types of adrenocortical hypofunction and their causes.
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