Final answer:
Addison's disease is an autoimmune condition affecting the adrenal glands, while iatrogenic conditions are caused directly by medical treatments, which can induce symptoms similar to Addison's by affecting adrenal function.
Step-by-step explanation:
Both Addison's disease and iatrogenic conditions can involve the adrenal glands but have different etiologies. Addison's disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI), is often caused by an autoimmune response, specifically autoimmune Addison disease (AAD), leading to the destruction of the adrenal cortex. Up to 80% of AAD cases involve autoantibodies to enzymes like 21-hydroxylase (21-OH), indicative of the disease. The condition is characterized by symptoms such as hypotension, hypoglycemia, fatigue, and hyperpigmentation of the skin.
In contrast, iatrogenic adrenal insufficiency is the result of medical intervention, such as the administration of exogenous steroids that suppress the function of the adrenal glands. This suppression can result in an insufficiency that mirrors Addison's disease when these medications are withdrawn or dosages are decreased.