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HPA Axis Blunting

Meaning

HPA Axis Blunting describes a clinically significant, diminished, or attenuated neuroendocrine response of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis to a standardized psychological or physical stress challenge. This functional alteration is biochemically characterized by a reduced or flattened peak release of cortisol following the stressor, a response that is suboptimal compared to the robust rise seen in healthy, resilient individuals. This blunted profile is often associated with conditions involving chronic, severe, or overwhelming stress exposure, suggesting a state of allostatic overload or chronic neuroendocrine adaptation. It represents a functional deviation from the normal, dynamic stress response necessary for maintaining equilibrium.