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HPA Axis Integrity

Meaning

HPA Axis Integrity refers to the optimal structural and functional soundness of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis, the body’s central neuroendocrine system governing the stress response and maintaining allostasis. High integrity implies a finely tuned, resilient feedback loop capable of rapidly initiating and appropriately terminating the release of stress hormones, particularly cortisol, in response to various stressors. Clinical assessment of this integrity is paramount for understanding chronic stress-related hormonal dysfunctions, which can cascade into systemic health issues.