Hypocortisolism - Addison's Disease

Addison disease occurs when the adrenal glands are no longer able to produce certain hormones needed for life, such as cortisol and aldosterone.

What is going on in the body?

There are two adrenal glands in the body, one on top of each kidney. They produce two hormones: cortisol and aldosterone.

Cortisol

Cortisol is a type of hormone called a glucocorticoid. It affects almost every organ and tissue in the body. Experts believe cortisol may have hundreds of effects, but its main job is to help the body respond to stress. Other vital tasks include the following.

Cortisol is vital to health, so the body maintains a precise balance. As with many other hormones, the hypothalamus and pituitary gland are key to this control.

Aldosterone

Aldosterone is a type of hormone called a mineralcorticoid. It helps with the following functions:

What are the causes and risks of the disease?

Addison disease is a rare disorder that affects only about 1 in every 100,000 people. It occurs in all age groups, and affects both men and women equally. Addison disease may be caused by either a disorder of the adrenal glands themselves, which is called primary adrenal insufficiency. Or, it may be caused by inadequate secretion of ACTH by the pituitary gland. In primary adrenal insufficiency, an autoimmune disorder that makes the person's own immune system attack and destroy the outer layer of the adrenal glands, called the cortex, is often at fault. When at least 90 percent of the cortex has been destroyed, adrenal insufficiency occurs. Experts believe causes for this type may include:

Secondary adrenal insufficiency is due to a lack of ACTH, which causes the adrenal glands to produce less cortisol. It does not affect production of aldosterone. Causes of this type of insufficiency include: