Question

Identify the primary causes of adrenal insufficiency. Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct.

a- Hemorrhage
b- Tuberculosis
c- Pituitary tumors
d- Postpartum pituitary necrosis
e- Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)

Answer 1

The primary causes of adrenal insufficiency include hemorrhage, tuberculosis, pituitary tumors, postpartum pituitary necrosis, and AIDS, with autoimmune response also being a significant cause.

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary causes of adrenal insufficiency, also known as Addison's disease, include a variety of factors. These factors can directly affect the adrenal glands, leading to their malfunction or can indirectly cause adrenal insufficiency through effects on the pituitary gland, which controls adrenal hormone production. The main causes include:

• Hemorrhage: Bleeding within the adrenal glands can damage the tissue and lead to hypofunction.
• Tuberculosis: An infection that can lead to the destruction of the adrenal cortex, causing Addison's disease.
• Pituitary tumors: May decrease the output of ACTH, which is essential for stimulating cortisol production in the adrenal glands.
• Postpartum pituitary necrosis: Also known as Sheehan's syndrome, can result in decreased ACTH production due to damage to the pituitary gland.
• Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS): Can cause secondary immunodeficiency and potentially affect adrenal function.

In addition to these causes, autoimmune Addison disease is also a significant cause, where the body's immune system attacks the adrenal cortex, resulting in a hypofunction of the adrenal glands. Diagnosis and treatment of adrenal insufficiency typically involve blood tests, imaging, and hormone replacement therapy.