Primary adrenal insufficiency in adults: When to suspect, how to diagnose and manage

Authors

Michelle D. Lundholm, Associate Staff, Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH lundholmmichelle@gmail.com.
Jayachidambaram Ambalavanan, Adult Endocrinologist, Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Maine Medical Center, Maine Health, Sarborough, ME.
Pratibha Pr Rao, Medical Director Adrenal Center, Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH; Clinical Assistant Professor, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

9-3-2024

Institution/Department

Endocrinology

Journal Title

Cleveland Clinic journal of medicine

MeSH Headings

Humans; Addison Disease (diagnosis, complications); Adult; Adrenal Insufficiency (diagnosis); Hydrocortisone (blood); Diagnosis, Differential

Abstract

Primary adrenal insufficiency is rare but serious; it puts patients at risk of acute decompensation and adrenal crisis due to insufficient cortisol and aldosterone production. Further, its diagnosis is often delayed, or it is mistaken for secondary adrenal insufficiency, which can have life-threatening consequences. Early recognition and appropriate treatment can greatly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

First Page

553

Last Page

562

Recommended Citation

Lundholm MD, Ambalavanan J, Rao PP. Primary adrenal insufficiency in adults: When to suspect, how to diagnose and manage. Cleve Clin J Med. 2024;91(9):553-562. Published 2024 Sep 3. doi:10.3949/ccjm.91a.23072