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Addison Disease

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition

Addison Disease

(Adrenal Insufficiency; Adrenocortical Hypofunction; Chronic Adrenocortical Insufficiency; Hypoadrenalism)

Definition

Addison disease happens when the adrenal glands do not make enough of a hormone called cortisol. It helps the body with things like blood pressure, metabolism, and the immune system. Levels of another hormone called aldosterone may also be low.

The disease may be:

  • Primary—the adrenal glands cannot make hormones
  • Secondary—other hormones that tell the adrenal glands what to do are missing or are low

A severe problem from this disease is Addisonian or adrenal crisis. It can be deadly.

Adrenal Glands.

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Causes

Primary Addison disease is caused by problems with the outer layer of the adrenal gland. This can happen slowly over time.

Addison disease is most often caused by the immune system attacking the gland. It is not known why this happens.

The gland may be harmed by infections, such as:

Less common causes are:

  • Some cancers
  • Amyloidosis—buildup of certain proteins in tissue
  • Bleeding in the glands—may happen because of blood thinning drugs or shock
  • Having the glands removed with surgery
  • Genetic problems or issues present at birth that make it hard for the glands to work as they should
  • Some medicines

Secondary Addison disease can be caused by harm to the pituitary gland. This gland sends hormones that control the adrenal gland.

This disease may also happen when a person has taken corticosteroids for a long time and then stops.

Risk Factors

This disease is more common in women.

Other things that may raise the risk are:

Symptoms

A person with Addison disease may:

  • Be very tired
  • Not be hungry or lose weight
  • Have nausea and vomiting
  • Have muscle and joint pain
  • Have dark freckles on nipples, scars, skin creases, gums, mouth, and nail beds
  • Crave salty foods
  • Have mental health issues, such as depression
  • Women may have:
    • Dry and itchy skin
    • Lack of sex drive

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done.

Blood and urine tests may be done to check hormone levels.

Pictures may be taken. This can be done with:

Treatment

There is no cure. The goal is to manage symptoms and lower the risk of adrenal crisis.

Medicines can be given to replace missing hormones. The dose may need to be raised during times of stress or sickness, such as surgery, pregnancy, or trauma.

Prevention

Addison disease cannot be prevented.

RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Adrenal insufficiency and Addison's disease. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/adrenal-insufficiency-addisons-disease.
  • Adrenal insufficiency in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/adrenal-insufficiency-in-adults.
  • Barthel, A., Benker, G., et al. An update on Addison's disease. Experimental and Clinical Endocrinology & Diabetes, 2019; 127 (2-03): 165-175.

Contributors

  • James P. Cornell, MD
Last Updated:
2023-03-28

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.