Addisons Disease: A Brief Review

Addison’s disease is a rare condition which occurs due to improper function or damage of the adrenal glands. The two outer layers of cells of the adrenal glands i.e. adrenal cortex are responsible for the production of several steroid hormones. Addison’s disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, result from the insufficient production of these two hormones, cortisol and aldosterone. These hormones help regulate metabolism, blood pressure and stress response. The absence of cortisol and aldosterone can affect almost every organ and tissue in the body. The symptoms of Addison’s disease can vary from one individual to another. Symptoms usually develop slowly over time leading to delay in the proper diagnosis. In rare cases, the symptoms of Addison’s disease can develop rapidly causing a condition called acute adrenal failure.

Keywords:- Adrenal Glands, Cortisol, Aldosterone, Primary Adrenal Insufficiency, Adrenal Failure.