What is the Origin of Adrenal Crisis?

The term is rooted in the adrenal glands, which are the source of the deficient hormones, and "crisis," signifying a turning point or an acutely dangerous condition in medicine. It is intimately linked to Addison's disease, the primary form of chronic adrenal insufficiency, first described by Thomas Addison.

What is the Mechanism of Adrenal Crisis?

The underlying mechanism involves a critical deficiency of cortisol, often triggered by a physical stressor like infection or surgery in a patient with pre-existing, often undiagnosed, adrenal insufficiency. Without adequate cortisol, the body loses its ability to maintain vascular tone, respond appropriately to catecholamines, and regulate glucose and electrolyte homeostasis. This rapid hormonal depletion precipitates the cascade of symptoms, including hyponatremia and hyperkalemia.

Adrenal Crisis

Meaning

An adrenal crisis, also known as an acute adrenal insufficiency or Addisonian crisis, represents a severe, life-threatening endocrine emergency. It is characterized by an insufficient level of cortisol, a critical glucocorticoid, leading to circulatory collapse, profound hypotension, and shock. Immediate, high-dose glucocorticoid replacement therapy is required to prevent fatal outcomes.