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Adrenal Resistance

Meaning

Adrenal resistance is a clinical concept describing a state where the body’s target tissues exhibit a diminished cellular response to the circulating actions of cortisol, even when the hormone’s plasma levels are within or above the normal range. This phenomenon signifies a functional impairment at the level of the glucocorticoid receptor or the downstream signaling cascade, rather than a primary insufficiency of the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. It presents a complex challenge in hormonal health, as the patient experiences symptoms of low cortisol despite adequate production. This condition underscores the crucial difference between hormone concentration and effective tissue signaling.