Contents
What Causes Adrenal Insufficiency? Unveiling the Mystery
Published: Aug 02, 2024
Adrenal insufficiency might sound mysterious, but understanding its causes is the first step to tackling it. Let's uncover the factors behind this sneaky condition.
Primary Adrenal Insufficiency
Primary adrenal insufficiency, often called Addison's disease, occurs when the adrenal glands are damaged and cannot produce enough hormones. Autoimmune disorders are the leading cause, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the glands. Other causes include infections, cancer, or hemorrhage affecting the adrenal glands.
Central Adrenal Insufficiency
Central adrenal insufficiency arises from problems in the pituitary gland, which fails to signal the adrenal glands to produce hormones. This can result from pituitary tumors, surgery, or radiation. In some cases, abrupt withdrawal from steroid medications can also lead to this condition.
Rare Causes
Though uncommon, genetic disorders can lead to adrenal insufficiency, affecting hormone production from birth. Severe infections or trauma that cause adrenal gland damage also pose a risk. Understanding these rare causes can aid early diagnosis and treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a type of primary adrenal insufficiency caused by adrenal gland damage.
It occurs when the pituitary gland fails to signal the adrenal glands.
Yes, abrupt withdrawal from steroids can lead to central adrenal insufficiency.
Rare genetic disorders can lead to adrenal insufficiency from birth.
Key Takeaways
Understanding the causes of adrenal insufficiency can help in early diagnosis and effective management.
References
- Hahner S, Loeffler M, Bleicken B, et al. Epidemiology of adrenal crisis in chronic adrenal insufficiency: the need for new prevention strategies. Eur J Endocrinol 2010; 162:597.
- Bancos I, Hahner S, Tomlinson J, Arlt W. Diagnosis and management of adrenal insufficiency. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol 2015; 3:216.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?