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Secondary Adrenal Axis Suppression

Meaning

Secondary Adrenal Axis Suppression is a condition characterized by inadequate cortisol production resulting from a dysfunction at the level of the pituitary gland or the hypothalamus, rather than primary adrenal gland failure. This central defect leads to insufficient secretion of Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH), which in turn causes the adrenal cortex to atrophy and reduce its cortisol output. This is most commonly seen clinically as a consequence of chronic, high-dose exogenous glucocorticoid use, which suppresses the central axis via negative feedback. Management requires careful, gradual withdrawal of the suppressive agent to allow the axis to recover.